The Legal Awareness Unit at the Centre for Legal and Judicial Studies (CLJS) of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) recently organized a workshop at Al Jumayliyah Youth Centre focusing on the dangers of electronic blackmail. The workshop was part of the ministry’s efforts to cooperate with youth centers in order to enhance legal awareness, educate individuals on legal matters, and instill important legal values. The goal was to provide the center’s members with knowledge and skills related to legal issues. The workshop was led by Abdul Rahman Ali Malhiyah, head of the Legal Awareness Unit at CLJS.
During the workshop, participants learned about the crime of electronic blackmail, its implications within the framework of the law, and the potential risks it poses to society. Electronic blackmail is considered to be a form of modern electronic crime, and it was important for the attendees to understand its motives, stages, and how to avoid becoming a victim. The workshop also focused on the penalties associated with electronic blackmail, highlighting the legal consequences for those who engage in such actions.
One of the key points emphasized during the workshop was the concept of electronic blackmail as a form of threat and intimidation. This often involves the publication of compromising photos or videos, or the leaking of confidential information about the victim. The goal of the blackmailer is usually to extort money from the victim or coerce them into engaging in illegal activities, such as divulging sensitive information about their employer. Participants were advised not to engage with blackmailers and to report such incidents to the appropriate authorities, such as the Anti-Cybercrime Centre at the Criminal Investigation Department.
The workshop also shed light on the steps typically taken by blackmailers, and stressed the importance of reporting such incidents promptly. Additionally, attendees were informed about the increased penalties for extortion crimes under Qatari legislation. The Cybercrime Prevention Law, issued in 2014, and the penal code, promulgated in 2004, outline the legal consequences for individuals found guilty of engaging in electronic blackmail. These laws are in place to safeguard the security and safety of society and deter individuals from committing such crimes.
Overall, the workshop served as an important opportunity for participants to gain valuable insights into the dangers of electronic blackmail and to learn how to protect themselves from falling victim to such crimes. By spreading legal awareness and educating individuals on these important issues, the Ministry of Justice and the Legal Awareness Unit at CLJS are working towards creating a safer and more informed society. The collaboration between the ministry and youth centers is instrumental in reaching a wider audience and ensuring that legal education is accessible to all members of the community.
