Saudi Arabia Cybercrime Law — What Is Illegal and the Penalties

The Anti-Cybercrime Law covers a broad range of digital offenses — from hacking to online blackmail — with substantial penalties.

Key Offenses Covered

• Unauthorized access — hacking systems without permission
• Electronic blackmail — threatening to expose private images or information
• Online defamation — publishing false or harmful statements
• Identity impersonation — creating fake accounts to deceive others
• Privacy violations — distributing private content without consent

Penalties

Basic offenses carry fines up to SAR 5 million and up to one year imprisonment. Aggravated offenses — such as blackmail or content targeting minors — can result in five years imprisonment and SAR 3 million in fines.

How to Report

File reports through the Saudi Cybercrime Authority portal or by calling 1909. Preserve all evidence before reporting.