Thursday, Jul 28, 2016

Dubai: Pokemon fans should use civic senses and obey safety and privacy rules while playing the game in Dubai’s public parks, a senior official said on Tuesday.

Fears about the new gaming craze raising safety and privacy concerns have mounted across the world and Dubai is no exception.

While parks and other open areas are touted as the best places to chase the virtual Pokemon characters, players will not be allowed to cross their limits in parks, the Dubai Municipality has clarified. The municipality slaps a fine of Dh500 for damaging or plucking flowers.

In the wake of reports of players endangering the safety of others and themselves and invading the privacy of others, Pokemon fans are being asked to “go” with caution.

Mohammad Al Fardan, the head of Parks at the Dubai Municipality, told Gulf News that existing rules about safety and privacy are applicable to Pokemon Go players as well.

“They should use their civic senses,” he said.

“Parks are safe for people to run and walk around, whether to chase Pokemon or not, but safety rules should not be ignored.”

People should not misuse the game to take photo or video of others in the guise of playing the game either, he added.

Taking pictures of other people without their permission while playing a game or doing anything else is not allowed in public places especially in parks and beaches where people are relaxing and enjoying, he noted.

“People should not misuse the game to invade the privacy of others,” he said and urged parents to take responsibility of their kids and supervise them while they play the game.

“If things go out of control, we have to take action. If there is any misbehaviour, it doesn’t matter if they are playing Pokemon or football … our supervisors [at the parks] will take cation. All our rules and regulations are very clear and we expect people to follow them.”

Sultan Al Suwaidi, the head of the Public Safety Section at the Public Health and Safety Department, said safety concerns about the game are perceived more when it is played on the streets rather than in parks, which are designed for people to play different games.

“I saw some videos [on social media] where some people were acting like they were playing [this game], but they were actually filming others. People can also knock on your doors to learn about your family on the pretext of playing. The game that has become a new rage among the youngsters could pose privacy concerns here as well … I think all relevant authorities should take note of it,” he said.

Meanwhile, residents in The Greens community, have complained that security has been banning people from playing the game in public areas. An Emirati resident, who wanted to stay anonymous, said he was dropping a friend off at his community roundabout where residents had gathered to play Pokemon Go when he was approached by security. “I saw the security asking our friends to leave and then I was asked why I had parked my car,” said the resident. He added that security men were asking people to leave, highlighting that the management has placed restrictions on playing Pokémon in public.

The community’s developer told Gulf News there are no restrictions on playing the game in the community, as long as it does not interfere with the safety of others.

“We follow the regulations regarding safety and security as outlined by the authorities in our communities. There are no restrictions unless it is found that they could potentially endanger themselves or others,” said spokesperson.

by Sajila Saseendran Senior Reporter Jumana Khamis Staff Reporter

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