Uzbekistan to Tighten Fight Against Cybercrime

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed proposals to strengthen the fight against cybercrime and organized crime in Uzbekistan. The initiatives aim to improve legislation, increase the effectiveness of crime prevention, and strengthen the protection of the digital environment.

According to data presented at the meeting, internet access in the country continues to expand rapidly. The number of users has already exceeded 31 million people, with about 14 million actively using social networks. At the same time, the number of crimes in the digital environment has also increased sharply: over the past 6 years, the number of appeals related to cybercrimes has increased 48 times.

In 2025, 82% of all fraud cases and 76% of thefts in the country were committed using information technology. The total damage caused to citizens and companies exceeded 2 trillion soums. The authorities consider it necessary to tighten the responsibility for such crimes, including the activities of financial pyramids.

It is also proposed to strengthen the personal responsibility of citizens for the use of electronic payment instruments, crypto wallets, SIM cards, and accounts registered in their name. It is planned to introduce administrative and criminal liability in cases where such funds are used to commit cybercrimes.

Special attention is paid to the protection of critical information infrastructure. Companies may face administrative liability for non-compliance with information and cybersecurity requirements, even if the violation did not result in damage. Special emphasis is placed on the banking sector, which actively provides remote financial services.