The government has introduced an amendment to the Penal Code aimed at criminalising various acts of cybercrime. The amendment was presented to the parliament by Parliamentarian for the Maafushi Constituency Hussain Riza.
The proposed amendment adds a new chapter, Chapter 240, to the Penal Code, specifically addressing computer and computer-related offenses. Key provisions include the criminalisation of unauthorised access to computer systems, unauthorised interception of computer data, and interference and misuse of computer devices.
Additionally, the amendment categorises acts of cyber violence, computer-related forgery, fraud, and infringement of copyright and other related rights as criminal offenses. However, it clarifies that unauthorised access to a computer system under a court order or a permit issued by law will not be considered an offense.
Acts of Cyber Violence Defined in the Amendment:
Publishing child pornography via a computer system
Generating child pornography for publication through a computer system
Possession of child pornography on a computer system or data storage medium
Acts of threatening behavior
Disclosure of pornographic materials with intent to cause harm
Cyberstalking