No, using fake names on social media in Poland violates the Act on Providing Services by Electronic Means (Ustawa o świadczeniu usług drogą elektroniczną) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), as it obscures identity without lawful basis. The Personal Data Protection Office (UODO) enforces strict transparency rules, requiring platforms to verify user identities upon request. Recent 2026 amendments to the Act on Combating Cybercrime further criminalize impersonation, imposing fines up to PLN 50,000 (≈€11,000) for non-compliance.
Key Regulations for Using Fake Names on Social Media in Poland
- GDPR Compliance (Art. 5, 6): Fake names breach lawfulness, fairness, and transparency principles unless justified (e.g., whistleblowing under Act on the Protection of Whistleblowers). Platforms must log real identities for authorities under Ustawa o cyberbezpieczeństwie (2026).
- Electronic Services Act (Art. 10): Mandates platforms to collect and verify user identities, prohibiting pseudonyms that hinder traceability. Failure to comply risks penalties from the Office of Electronic Communications (UKE).
- Criminal Code (Art. 270a): Impersonation via fake profiles constitutes fraud (oszustwo), punishable by up to 3 years’ imprisonment if used to deceive or defraud. UODO collaborates with Policja to investigate violations.