Oman's Cybercrime Law targets electronic payment fraud with specific offenses and penalties

Oman has enacted a robust Cybercrime Law, detailed under Royal Decree 61/2026, which specifically targets the misuse of electronic payment methods. This legislation includes a dedicated chapter designed to safeguard financial transactions conducted through information technology.

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the law provides for three separate offences involving electronic payment means, each targeting a distinct form of misuse.

Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Zadjali, Chairman of Mohammed Ibrahim Law Firm, explained that the law identifies three distinct offenses related to electronic payment means. The first concerns the unauthorized acquisition or seizure of electronic payment data with the intent to share it or facilitate its access by others. The second offense involves using information technology to obtain services offered by electronic payment means without proper authorization, for oneself or another party.

The third category of offense under the law addresses the forgery of electronic payment means. Each of these offenses carries specific penalties, underscoring the Omani government's commitment to deterring and punishing those who exploit digital financial systems.

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The first applies to whoever uses a website, information system, or information technology means to obtain or seize the data of an electronic payment means without a legitimate basis, with the intention of providing it to another or facilitating obtaining it.

Penalties vary based on the severity and nature of the crime. The first offense, involving data seizure, can result in one to two years of imprisonment and fines ranging from OMR1,000 to OMR5,000. The second offense, focused on illicit service acquisition, carries a potential imprisonment of one to three years and fines between OMR3,000 and OMR10,000. Forgery of electronic payment means, the third offense, faces the most stringent penalties, with imprisonment from one to three years and fines from OMR5,000 to OMR10,000.

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The second applies when someone uses a website, information system, or information technology means to obtain or seize payment data with the intention of obtaining, without a legitimate basis, the services provided by the electronic payment means, whether for themselves or for another person.

These provisions demonstrate Oman's dedication to protecting individuals and businesses from the growing threat of electronic payment crime. By establishing clear criminal accountability, the law aims to foster trust and security in the nation's digital financial landscape.

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The third category covers whoever uses a website, information system, or information technology means to forge an electronic payment means.