Government proposes tougher measures against cybercrime and financial pyramids

The proposal was presented to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on March 12 during a briefing on measures to strengthen the fight against cybercrime and organized crime and to improve the prevention of offenses committed using information technologies, the presidential press service reported.

Officials noted that the number of internet users in Uzbekistan has exceeded 31 million, including 14 million active social media users. At the same time, authorities say the internet and social platforms are increasingly being used for illegal activities.

Over the past six years, the number of complaints related to cybercrime has increased 48 times.

In 2025, cybercrime accounted for a significant share of offenses:

• 82 percent of fraud cases
• 76 percent of theft cases

Financial damage caused to individuals and businesses exceeded UZS 2 trillion, according to official data.

During the presentation, officials emphasized that the rapid increase in cybercrime highlights the need to strengthen national legislation, tighten penalties, and introduce legal provisions addressing new forms of digital crime.

Among the proposed measures are stricter punishments for crimes committed using information technologies and for financial pyramid schemes, which have affected many citizens.

Authorities also suggested introducing liability for individuals who allow their registered financial or communication tools to be used in criminal schemes.

Under the proposal, citizens could face administrative or criminal penalties if electronic payment instruments, cryptocurrency wallets, SIM cards, or online accounts registered in their name are used to commit cybercrime.

The measure aims to increase personal responsibility for the use of electronic payment systems and subscriber numbers registered in a person’s name.

President Mirziyoyev approved the proposals and instructed relevant officials to proceed with implementing the measures.

Authorities say the reforms are intended to strengthen cybercrime prevention and improve accountability in the digital environment.