⚡️ CYBERSECURITY: RISK GROWING, PROTECTION INSUFFICIENT

In recent years, cybercrime in Uzbekistan has not only increased in frequency but also become a serious threat to society and the economy. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the number of cybercrimes has increased 68-fold over the past five years. While 863 cybercrimes were committed in 2019, this figure is expected to reach 58,800 by 2024.

In 2024, a total of 132,298 crimes were committed nationwide. The crime rate per 10,000 residents increased from 28.3 to 35.6 in just a few years. Most alarmingly, cybercrime accounts for 44.4 percent of these crimes, or almost half.

The vast majority of cybercrimes—approximately 98 percent—are committed using bank cards and online payment systems.

In particular:

In 60 percent of cases, control of the device and card was achieved through malicious links or malware;

In 16% of cases, funds were stolen through the illegal acquisition of SMS codes;

There has been a sharp increase in online lending,

the covert use of mobile apps and cards,

fraud through marketplaces,

deception through fake commercial websites.

One of the most alarming aspects is that, amid this process, even official government websites and information systems are insufficiently protected.

A culture of cybersecurity and electronic safety has not yet been fully developed in society. No one can guarantee that citizens of Uzbekistan will be completely protected from cybercrime. Furthermore, insurance mechanisms against the most common cyberattacks have not been implemented at the state level.

It is difficult to say whether payment systems, banks, and financial institutions are capable of adequately protecting customer data and funds. Certain measures are being taken by the government and responsible bodies at the national level:

— penalties for information technology crimes are being increased;

— explanatory content is being disseminated in the media and social media.

However, experience shows that these measures have not yet significantly reduced the problem. Public awareness of cybercrime remains low.

Therefore, every citizen should treat suspicion, not share SMS codes with anyone, and avoid visiting suspicious websites and apps not as a simple precaution, but as "cyber etiquette." Knowing and adhering to these rules is essential for personal security in modern digital life.

Otherwise, we will always be easy prey for cybercriminals.