What Is the Penalty for Insults or Threats on Instagram or WhatsApp in Iran?
2025-06-29
A Legal Guide to Online Harassment and Cyber Threats under Iranian Law
Introduction
With the widespread use of platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and other social media apps, many traditional crimes such as insult and threat have moved into the digital space. However, the idea that “private messages or DMs are not criminal” is completely false under Iranian law.
Iran clearly considers online insult or threat as criminal offenses and provides penalties including imprisonment and fines.
This article explains:
When insults or threats via social media become criminal
What types of messages are punishable
Applicable penalties under Iranian law
How to file a complaint
What Constitutes an Online Insult or Threat?
Any verbal abuse, humiliation, profanity, or threat of violence, death, reputational damage, or financial harm, made through:
Instagram DMs or comments
WhatsApp messages (text, audio, or emoji)
Mentions, stories, or even mocking stickers
If the identity of the accused can be established, these actions are criminally prosecutable.
Relevant Legal Articles
Article 608 of the Islamic Penal Code (Insult):
“Insulting another person by using offensive or vulgar language—excluding accusations of adultery—shall be punished by up to 74 lashes or a cash fine.”
Article 669 (Threat):
“Anyone who threatens another person with killing, bodily harm, dishonor, or financial loss shall be sentenced to 2 months to 2 years in prison or up to 74 lashes.”
Article 17 of the Computer Crimes Law:
“Publishing offensive, immoral, or threatening content through computer systems or online platforms is a criminal offense.”
What Types of Messages Are Considered Criminal?
Common examples include:
Direct profanity or vulgar language
Threats of assault, acid attacks, or murder
Threats to leak private photos or videos
Humiliating or defamatory messages
Offensive words using intentional misspelling or emojis
Threats against a person’s family or children
How to File a Complaint
Take clear screenshots of the messages, profile name, phone number, or user ID
Go to an Electronic Judiciary Service Office and file a complaint under “online insult or threat”
If the sender’s identity is unknown, request a technical investigation by the Cyber Police (FATA)
If evidence is strong, the prosecutor will issue a criminal indictment
Do Private Chats Count Too?
Yes. Even in private chats (e.g., WhatsApp or Instagram DMs), insults or threats are punishable, as long as:
The message is offensive or threatening
It can be linked to a specific individual
There’s no requirement for the message to be public or posted on a public page.
Conclusion
Insulting or threatening someone on social media, whether in public or private spaces, is a criminal offense under Iranian law. Upon proof, the court may issue a sentence of imprisonment, lashes, or fines.
Alemohammad Law Office offers professional legal assistance in cybercrime cases, including online insult and threats, digital evidence collection, and legal representation — for clients inside Iran and Iranians living abroad.
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