MoTCIT Introduces Cybercrime Law to Enhance National Digital Security

Leave a Comment / Cybersecurity, Data Protection, Enterprise Technology, Industry News / By cxojunction

As cyber threats continue to evolve, governments are strengthening legal frameworks to better protect their digital ecosystems. In line with this effort, Oman has introduced a new cybercrime law to enhance national digital security and strengthen its response to cybercrime.

Issued under Royal Decree No. (61/2026), the Law on Combating Cybercrime is designed to protect the confidentiality and integrity of electronic data and information, safeguard digital evidence, and establish stronger legal deterrence through penalties for crimes committed using information technology. The legislation also empowers the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology to combat cybercrime more effectively and help prevent attacks targeting websites, information systems, and other information technology tools.

The cybercrime law is divided into several chapters, each addressing a specific category of cyber offences. 

The First Chapter defines the key terms used throughout the legislation and outlines its scope of application.

The Second Chapter criminalizes unauthorized access to electronic data, information systems, websites, and information technology tools, including the intentional and unlawful acquisition of passwords, access codes, or any other means of gaining access.

The Third Chapter focuses on the misuse of information technology tools. It criminalizes possessing, providing, or distributing devices, software, equipment, or data intended to commit or facilitate cybercrimes, or conceal digital evidence.

The Fourth Chapter criminalizes concealing or refusing to provide access codes for information technology devices that have been used to commit or facilitate cybercrimes when requested by a judicial officer.

The Fifth Chapter addresses digital impersonation and online fraud. It criminalizes impersonating a natural or legal person through a website, information system, or information technology device, as well as using these platforms to obtain unlawful benefits for oneself or others through fraudulent means.

The Sixth Chapter covers content-related offences, including crimes against the state. It criminalizes the use of websites, information systems, or technology tools to promote terrorist ideologies or activities, or publish information on manufacturing explosives, weapons, or tools used in terrorist operations.

The Seventh Chapter focuses on financial cybercrime by criminalizing the forgery of electronic payment methods and the theft of electronic payment data.

The Eighth and Final Chapter makes it an offence to use websites, information systems, or information technology tools to establish or operate organized criminal groups.

The new law strengthens Oman’s legal framework against cyber threats while enhancing the security of its digital infrastructure and online services. It also reinforces the country’s commitment to stronger cybersecurity governance.

What Organizations Can Learn

The new cybercrime law highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity, legal compliance, and effective risk management. It serves as a reminder for organizations to strengthen cybersecurity controls, protect sensitive data, preserve digital evidence, and stay aligned with evolving cyber regulations to reduce risks and build greater trust in their digital operations.

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