President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the Sixth Amendment to the Penal Code of Maldives (Law No. 9/2014), marking a significant step in addressing cybercrime within the nation’s legal framework. Passed by the Parliament during the 58th sitting of the 20th Majlis on December 9, 2024, the amendment introduces robust measures to tackle a wide range of cyber offenses.
The amendment identifies the following activities as cybercrime offenses:
1. Unauthorised access to computer systems
2. Accessing unauthorised computer systems with criminal intent
3. Intercepting unauthorised data from computer systems
4. Interfering with unauthorised computer systems
5. Misuse of computer systems or similar devices
6. Cyber violence
7. Computer-related forgeries
8. Fraud and misrepresentation using computer systems
I9. Infringement of copyright and related rights
With its ratification, the Amendment has been published in the Government Gazette and is now in effect. This progressive move underscores the government's dedication to safeguarding digital security and combating cyber threats in the Maldives.