Saudi Arabia Warns Against Use of Red Heart Emojis on Messaging Apps

Saudi Arabia, along with Kuwait, has warned against the use of red heart emojis on messaging apps including WhatsApp. Individuals who use this emojis may receive jail time and fines if it is considered within the context of harassment.

A Saudi cybercrime expert explained that sending a red heart emoji on WhatsApp can be interpreted as 'harassment' under the country's legal framework.

Offenders could face a prison time of two to five years and a fine of SAR 100,000.

A member of the Anti-Fraud Association in Saudi Arabia Al Moataz Kutbi also explained how certain expressions and images shared in online conversations can turn into a harassment crime if the aggrieved party decides to file a lawsuit.

Offenders who repeat the crime can face a heftier fine of SAR 300,000 and a maximum of five years in prison.

People are discouraged from using the red heart emoji to curb inappropriate or offensive online behavior.