Blackmail is threatening someone to force them to pay money, give a benefit, or do or refrain from something. Most of it today is online blackmail using images, chats or private information. Saudi law punishes it strictly, and victims are protected when they act quickly and correctly.
The penalty
The Anti-Cybercrime Law (Article 3) punishes threatening or blackmailing a person to make them act or refrain with imprisonment up to one year and a fine up to SAR 500,000, or either. Aggravating circumstances and related crimes such as harassment or defamation can add penalties. Check the latest official text.
Being blackmailed? Do this now
- Do not pay or respond: paying usually brings more demands.
- Delete nothing: save chats, screenshots, account names and links, and any transfer numbers.
- Stop contact after saving evidence; change passwords and turn on two-factor authentication.
- Report to the security authorities through official channels (such as the «Kollona Amn» app or a police station). Reports are confidential.
- Consult a lawyer if you know the blackmailer, money was paid, or you fear publication.
After the report
The authorities trace the accounts and gather evidence; the case goes to the Public Prosecution and then the Criminal Court. The victim may claim compensation, including money paid to the blackmailer.
Facing blackmail or threats?
The Usus Law Firm team handles criminal cases and cybercrime in full confidence, with women lawyers, in Riyadh and Tabuk.
This article is general legal information and is not a substitute for advice on your specific case. Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia are in Arabic; the official Arabic text of each law prevails.
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