Al-Jazirah After the arrest of a young couple for taking selfie with the burning Dubai hotel, The Address, in the background nobody would dare to take selfies in the emirate without checking what is in the background, fearing legal action. The couple was later released after investigations proved the two had no criminal motive in taking the controversial selfie. This incident stresses the need to enforce law firmly against those who misuse the social media, violating the freedom and honor of others. It is high time police detain people who take selfies with traffic accident scenes and with women without their permission and with the intent of defamation, entertainment or joke to stop such abhorrent practices. At present we see hundreds of such clips exchanged on the social media day and night. Police should arrest them and take punitive action. This way we can prevent the misuse of electronic media and protect the rights and privacy of others. Last July I mentioned in my column that Russia was the first country to enact laws to regulate the use of selfie because of deadly accidents caused by people taking such photos. I am happy to know that the Traffic Department has banned taking selfies while driving. I propose wider application of such a law in order to ensure proper and civilized use of selfies. Some people take selfies near dead bodies and with people performing prayers. We have observed several such wrong uses of selfies. Laws must be enforced to prevent them. It is unfortunate that people have not yet realized the need to enforce the law for preventing cyber crimes. Telecom companies that provide the service have a huge responsibility in enhancing public awareness on how to use the electronic media, apart from SMS messages. We know that there are people who abuse others through WhatsApp groups and circulate ugly pictures, false news and rumors. These people should be given proper guidance by authorities before imposing deterrent punishment.
