Imprisonment and Fine for the WhatsApp Group Admin in This Case…

Al-Wasal – Madiha Al-Sulaimani Dr. Ahmed bin Said Al-Jahouri, lawyer and legal advisor, explained that anyone managing a WhatsApp group must take responsibility for the content shared and the way the group is managed. Under the Cybercrime Law, anyone using information networks or social media, such as mobile phones, can be criminally prosecuted if they incite or assist others in committing offenses. While the law does not directly target WhatsApp group admins, these platforms are generally considered communication tools. Article 61 of the Telecommunications Regulation Law stipulates a fine of up to OMR 1,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. Admins are accountable for everything shared or managed in the group, including rumors, incitement, or violations of public morals, and may be held liable even for remaining silent or failing to act against misconduct within the group.