VoIP in the UAE: Can I be jailed for using VPN services? Ashish Mehta/Dubai Reuters The use of virtual private network is controlled by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority. Question: I used a VPN service to make VOIP calls to my home country. Later, I was told by my friends that using VPN services have legal consequences. What are the legal challenges I may face? How much do I have to pay in fines? Will I face jail time? Answer: Your queries are related to Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) calls usage in the UAE, therefore, provisions of Federal Decree Law No. 5 of 2012 on Combating Cybercrimes (the ‘UAE Cyber Law’) and the provisions of Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 on the issuance of Penal Code (the ‘UAE Penal Law’) is applicable.