Information systems are a vital part of the modern digital world, and with the rapid technological development, these systems have become more complex and integrated, which requires their protection and good security. For this reason, governmental and judicial agencies in most countries work to develop laws and regulations that regulate the use and protection of information systems.
In this context, the Public Prosecution issued an important statement related to information systems and the importance of protecting them. This statement aims to warn against harming information systems and to emphasize that any violation in this regard is considered a major crime that requires legal intervention and strict criminal accountability.
The importance of protecting information systems
Information systems contain a wide range of data and information that may be very sensitive and important, and in order to ensure the integrity and security of this data, information systems must be protected from any attempt to illegally access it.
The importance of protecting information systems is represented in the following points:
Maintaining the internal and external security of the state
Information systems contain information related to the internal and external security of the state, including governmental, military and economic data. Therefore, any violation of these systems endangers the security and stability of the state.
Prevent breaches and data manipulation
Hackers and cybercriminals seek to penetrate information systems with the aim of obtaining sensitive information or tampering with the data stored in them. By protecting these systems well, the chance of success of such attacks can be reduced and data integrity preserved.
Maintain privacy and confidentiality
Information systems contain many personal and sensitive information of individuals and companies, and it is important to protect this information and maintain its privacy and confidentiality, so that it is not exploited for illegal purposes or endangers its owners.
Violation of information systems and its consequences
Violations related to information systems are considered major crimes, and require deterrent penalties to prevent and deter transgressors. In the statement issued by the Public Prosecution, the consequences facing violators were specified in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, and include the following penalties:
- Imprisonment of up to ten years.
- A fine of up to five million riyals.
- Confiscating the devices, programs and tools used in committing the crime, as well as the money obtained from them.
- Closing down websites or places where the service is provided, if they are a source for committing the crime, and if the crime was committed by the owner of the site.
- A penalty up to the maximum penalty prescribed for the crime for any person who incited, assisted or collaborated with another person in the commission of that crime.
Information crime and its types
Information crime is defined as any illegal behavior that takes place through the use of electronic devices and leads to obtaining material or moral benefits. Information crimes are divided into several types, the most prominent of which are:
Computer crimes
Computer crimes relate to tampering with computer systems, hacking and exploiting computer devices for illegal purposes. These crimes include electronic piracy, the spread of malware, and penetration of computer networks.
Information crimes
Information crimes relate to the unlawful appropriation of sensitive information and its exploitation for illegal purposes. Examples of such crimes include theft of personal information, forgery of official documents, and tampering with stored data.
Cybercrime
Cybercrime includes several forms of fraud and forgery that are carried out over the Internet, and these crimes include credit card fraud, manipulation of financial markets, and the spread of fraudulent messages.
Communication crimes
Communication crimes include the use of electronic means of communication to incite violence or hatred or to perform illegal acts. Examples of such crimes include threats by phone or e-mail, and incitement to violence through social media.
Security precautions to protect information systems
To ensure the protection of information systems and reduce the chance of breaches and violations, the necessary security precautions must be taken. The following are some of the basic measures that can be taken:
- Update the software and systems in use regularly to ensure that security vulnerabilities are corrected.
- Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Encrypt sensitive information and use appropriate security protocols.
- Provide appropriate access to users and track and record activities.
- Perform data backups regularly.
- Educating employees on security matters and promoting awareness of the risks of suspicious e-mail and fraudulent messages.
- Use antivirus and malware protection software.
The protection of information systems is an inevitable necessity in our modern era integrated with technology. This protection includes taking the necessary security precautions and implementing the laws and regulations in force to reduce information crimes and hold violators accountable. Individuals, companies and institutions must be aware of these crimes and work to enhance security and maintain Sensitive data and its privacy.
