The Saudi legal system enhances the protection of all individuals from any form of exploitation and threats, without distinction between citizens and residents within the Kingdom. Given the growing prevalence of cyber extortion, in line with the widespread use of modern devices today, Saudi laws have been put in place to tackle the crime of cyber extortion. Strict measures are taken against the accused during the investigation phase due to the serious risks of the crime, followed by the imposition of severe penalties upon conviction. The following discusses this in detail:

Definition of Cyber Extortion:

Cyber extortion involves threatening the victim by publishing personal photos or information using an electronic communication platform, without specifying the method of communication. The threat is made to compel the victim to act or refrain from acting in a certain way.

Procedures to Follow If You Are a Victim of Cyber Extortion:

A complaint should be filed at the nearest police station to the victim’s residence, along with evidence that proves the occurrence of the extortion.

Investigation Procedures:

The Public Prosecutor in Saudi Arabia, exercising the authority granted to him under the Criminal Procedures Law, has classified cyber extortion as one of the major crimes. This classification requires distinguishing between how security authorities handle major and minor crimes, as follows:

• Preliminary Investigation:
  In major crimes, an initial investigation must be conducted by the Public Prosecution, and the identity of the accused must be verified.
• Arrest Warrants:
  For major crimes, if the accused fails to comply with a summons, an arrest warrant is issued. The accused is then detained until the case is referred to the Criminal Court.

Punishment for Cyber Extortion:

The Saudi legal system addresses cyber extortion in two aspects:

• Public Right:
  This refers to the state’s right, which cannot be waived even if the victim relinquishes their private claim. The law mandates a penalty against the extortionist after trial, with imprisonment for up to one year and a fine not exceeding SAR 500,000, or one of these penalties.
• Private Right:
  This pertains to the victim’s right to request additional penalties for the extortionist due to the harm suffered. If the crime is repeated, the judge may increase the punishment.

You can seek the assistance of a lawyer to handle blackmail cases through the following communication channels: