Abstract
With the increasing popularity of ICT, cyber-crimes have increased rapidly. Countries across the globe have made the necessary interventions to ensure cyber-security. Saudi Arabia has been the worst victim of cyber-crimes in the Gulf region. This article investigates the preparedness of Saudi Arabia to defend itself against cyber-crimes. In order to combat against cyber-crimes, Saudi Arabia formed the anti-cybercrimes law in 2007. Global Cyber-security Index of 2017 has placed Saudi Arabia in the maturing stage behind the leading nations. Anti-cybercrimes law covers essential areas to fight against cyber-crimes and states their punishments. However, it is found to be deficient to protect against identity theft, invasion of privacy, cyber-bullying etc. This research finds Saudi Arabia semi-prepared to defend itself against cyber-crimes. In order to be among the leading nations of cyber-security; Saudi Arabia needs to strengthen its anti-cybercrimes law, cyber-security regulations and national cyber-security authority. It needs to develop cyber-security strategy, standards, metrics and R&D programs. It should promote home-grown cyber-security industry, incentivize cyber-security companies and enter into multi-lateral agreements.
Highlights
Cyber-crimes are somehow different from computer crimes
CYBER CRIMES IN SAUDI ARABIA Internet usage has rapidly expanded in Saudi Arabia
The 2016 Internet Crime Report prepared by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) estimated financial loss to United States in excess of $1.3 billion due to cyber-crimes (Masters, 2017)
Summary
Average 138 countries have enacted anti-cybercrime legislation legislation worldwide. More than 30 countries does not have an anticybercrimes legislation. United States (US) has strong legislations to combat cyber-crimes like Computer Fraud and. Protection Act (NIIA) of 1996 amended CFAA and contained provisions related to unauthorized access to computer systems. The Saudi ACCL of 2007 contains provisions against hacking, illegal access to data, pornography, denial of service and cyber terrorism etc. It is deficient in preventing identity theft, protecting privacy of individuals, preventing cyber bullying etc. The performance of Saudi Arabia is assessed as average
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