KUWAIT CITY, May 3: Security sources have revealed that Kuwait’s Cybercrime Department, under the Ministry of Interior's Criminal Security Sector, receives approximately 120 complaints daily—primarily involving defamation, slander, and the spread of false information, often through blog posts or social media retweets.

Sources stated that the department has made significant progress in combating online abuse, successfully blocking around 80 percent of fake accounts responsible for spreading misinformation and verbal attacks. Most of these accounts are reportedly operated from outside the country. Legal action has been taken against several of the account holders, with some cases resulting in final judicial rulings.

On average, about 500 cybercrime cases are registered and reviewed by the judiciary each month, with roughly half ending in reconciliation. Authorities expressed concern over the high number of young people and women among the accused, noting that many are unaware that simply retweeting defamatory content can lead to prosecution, imprisonment, or heavy fines.

In response, the Cybercrime Department is intensifying its public awareness efforts. Its technical support team offers guidance via WhatsApp and conducts lectures at government entities, especially in public and private schools, to educate the public about the legal implications of online behavior.

The department is also tackling a wide range of cyber threats, including hacking, eavesdropping, incitement to immorality, and violations of public decency. Officials emphasized their swift coordination with the Communications and Banking Authority to combat fraudulent online activities and protect national security.