A man demanded I delete photos I took in public - was this right?
In today’s world, the rise of smartphones has made it easier for individuals to take pictures or record videos in public places. While this is usually considered legal in many countries, there are certain restrictions in place to protect people’s privacy and security. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is no exception to this, as there are laws that govern photography in public places.
One common question that arises is whether someone has the right to demand that photos be deleted if they were taken in a public space. In most cases, the answer is no. According to the UAE law, a person can only demand that photos be deleted if they were taken in a private space without their consent. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule.
For instance, if a photo is taken in a way that is deemed inappropriate or is being used for unlawful purposes, the individual has the right to demand that the photo be deleted. Moreover, if a person’s image is used for commercial purposes without their consent, they have the right to demand that it be removed.
It is important to note that the law in the UAE is strict when it comes to privacy, and individuals who violate these laws could face legal repercussions. As such, it is always advisable to exercise caution when taking photos in public places and to respect other people’s privacy and security.
If a person demands that photos be deleted, it is important to assess the situation and determine if there are any legal implications. If the individual’s request is reasonable and lawful, it is best to comply with it. However, if the request is unwarranted or unreasonable, it is within the individual’s rights to refuse to delete the photos.
In conclusion, photography in public places is legal in the UAE, but there are certain restrictions in place to protect people’s privacy and security. If a person demands that photos be deleted, it is important to assess the situation and determine if there are any legal implications. It is always advisable to exercise caution and respect others’ privacy when taking photos in public places.