A Complete Guide to Anti Cyber Crime Law in Saudi Arabia 2026

The Kingdom has enacted the anti cyber crime law to regulate such offenses and establish legal frameworks that protect personal data, digital property, and government systems from any unlawful acts. Cyber crimes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia represent one of the most significant challenges facing individuals and institutions due to the increasing reliance on digital technologies and the internet.

This law aims to enhance digital security and ensure effective handling of cyber crimes through strict penalties for offenders, whether the crimes target individuals, organizations, or government entities, while providing clear mechanisms for reporting and monitoring.

What is Anti Cyber Crime Law​ Saudi Arabia?

Cyber crimes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can be defined as unlawful acts committed through the use of digital technologies, including computers, smartphones, the internet, and social media platforms. Due to the rapid technological advancement and increased reliance on electronic systems, such crimes have become more prevalent and harmful to both individuals and institutions. Consequently, these offenses are regulated under the anti cyber crime law, which aims to protect data, privacy, and digital security.

Common forms of cyber crimes in Saudi Arabia include unauthorized access to systems or accounts to obtain personal data, illegal use of credit card and financial information, online blackmail, digital threats, and defamation of individuals—whether private persons or public figures—with the intent to harm their reputation. The anti cyber crime law establishes clear legal boundaries and penalties to deter such conduct.

Under Article Three of the anti cyber crime law, any person who commits one of the following acts shall be subject to imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year, or a fine not exceeding SAR 500,000, or both:

• Secretly intercepting or accessing data transmitted through information networks or computer devices without legal authorization.
• Unlawfully accessing systems or websites for the purpose of threatening or blackmailing others, or coercing them to perform or refrain from an act.
• Illegal access to websites with the intent to alter, destroy, manipulate, or hack their content.
• Violating personal privacy through misuse of camera-enabled mobile devices.
• Defaming or causing harm to others using digital or electronic means.

According to Article Four of the anti cyber crime law, a penalty of imprisonment for up to three years, or a fine not exceeding SAR 2,000,000, or both, shall apply to anyone who:

• Fraudulently acquires movable property or documents for themselves or others, including signing documents using false names or addresses.
• Accesses banking, credit, or investment data without legal justification to obtain information, funds, or services.

Furthermore, Article Five of the anti cyber crime law imposes stricter penalties, including imprisonment for up to four years and a fine of up to SAR 3,000,000, or either penalty, on any person who:

• Illegally accesses systems to delete, destroy, leak, alter, or redistribute personal data.
• Disrupts, deletes, damages, or alters software or data stored or used in information systems.
• Interferes with electronic services or prevents access to them by any means.

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What is The List of Cyber Crime in Saudi Arabia?

Article One of the Saudi Anti-Cyber Crime Law defines a cyber crime as any unlawful act committed through the use of information networks or any technological means, which constitutes a violation of the provisions of the law in force in the Kingdom.

Cyber crimes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia vary according to the party or interest affected and can be classified into several main categories, the most prominent of which are the following:

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First: Cyber Crimes Against Individuals

These are offenses that infringe upon individuals’ rights and personal privacy. Under Article Three, the law prescribes a penalty of imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year, or a fine not exceeding SAR 500,000, or both. Such crimes include:

• Illegal access to or theft of email accounts.
• Intercepting or eavesdropping on electronic communications without authorization.
• Violating personal privacy through the misuse of mobile phone cameras or similar devices.
• Identity theft or misuse of digital identities.
• Online impersonation for the purpose of gaining unlawful benefits or facilitating the commission of other crimes.

Second: Cyber Crimes Against Digital Property

These crimes involve unlawful acts targeting electronic systems, data, or software. The law provides for penalties of imprisonment for up to four years and a fine of up to SAR 3,000,000. These crimes include:

• Distributing or transmitting malicious software embedded in applications or auxiliary tools.
• Damaging, disabling, or destroying digital systems belonging to companies, institutions, or private entities.

Third: Cyber Crimes Against Government Entities

These offenses are considered among the most serious due to their impact on public security. According to Article Seven, offenders may face imprisonment for up to ten years and fines of up to SAR 5,000,000. These crimes include:

• Cyber attacks targeting official government websites.
• Attacks against government network systems and information infrastructure.

Cyber crimes in Saudi Arabia may be carried out using various tools, including specialized software, the internet, and mobile devices. The motives behind committing such crimes vary and may include financial gain, personal objectives, or other unlawful purposes.

How to report cyber crime in Saudi Arabia?

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, there are several channels and options available for addressing cyber crimes, either through official electronic platforms or via the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice. All procedures are carried out in accordance with the Saudi Arabia Cyber Security Law to ensure legal compliance and proper handling of cases.

The Cyber Crimes Unit, which is specially trained to monitor such cases, works on continuous verification of reports and documentation of various offenses to ensure they are handled efficiently.

Residents within the Kingdom can report cases through the unified cyber crimes hotline at 1909, which is dedicated to reporting electronic extortion. Saudi citizens residing outside the Kingdom can contact the Commission via the international number 00966114908666.

Additionally, the Commission has designated a landline number to receive all complaints related to cyber crimes against citizens within Saudi Arabia: 0114908666, which is available for both citizens and residents.

Therefore, anyone who experiences any type of cyber crime in the Kingdom is advised to report it to the Cyber Crimes Unit of the Commission, providing all necessary information and details to assist in identifying and apprehending the offender.

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Conclusion

The enforcement of the anti cyber crime law in Saudi Arabia represents a vital step toward safeguarding the digital community and promoting trust in the use of technology. The law creates a safer environment for internet users and helps limit the spread of digital crimes. For legal guidance or support regarding cyber crime cases, consulting Etqan Law Firm can provide expert assistance in navigating the legal procedures effectively.

The Etqan Al Mutamayza Law Firm is ready to provide the essential support you need. You can reach their team at the following mobile numbers: +966550600204, +966551020060.

Additionally, feel free to visit our branches located at:

• Jeddah: Al-Aziziyah District, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia)
• Riyadh: King Abdulaziz Street, across from the Kingdom Tower
• Dammam: Al-Ashri’a Street, Al-Badeea, Dammam 32415.

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