Cyber Law at Jordan
Cyber Law in Jordan has evolved significantly in recent years in response to growing digital threats, the need for online regulation, and the increasing digitization of government and business services. Jordan has developed a comprehensive legal framework to address cybercrime, data protection, electronic transactions, and cybersecurity.
Here’s an in-depth overview of Cyber Law in Jordan:
Cyber Law in Jordan
⚖️ 1. Cybercrime – Cybercrime Law No. 17 of 2023
In August 2023, Jordan enacted a new Cybercrime Law, replacing the 2015 version. The 2023 law significantly broadens the scope of punishable cyber activities.
🔐 Key Offenses Include:
Unauthorized access to computer systems (hacking).
Identity theft, impersonation, and online fraud.
Online defamation, slander, and hate speech.
Blackmail and extortion through digital platforms.
Distribution of illegal or immoral content (including pornography).
Cyberstalking and harassment.
Disruption of systems, malware dissemination, and phishing.
Spreading false news or “fake news” online.
⚠️ Controversy: The 2023 Cybercrime Law faced criticism from human rights organizations and media groups, including Human Rights Watch, for potentially restricting freedom of speech and targeting journalists and activists under broad definitions of defamation and fake news.
🧑⚖️ Penalties:
Fines and prison sentences (up to 3–5 years for certain offenses).
Confiscation of devices or content involved in the crime.
Potential banning or restriction of websites/apps by court order.
🛡️ 2. Data Protection – Draft Data Protection Law
Jordan does not yet have a comprehensive Data Protection Law, but a draft Data Protection Law has been under review since 2021. It is designed to align with international standards (e.g., GDPR) and includes:
Consent-based data processing.
Individual rights: access, rectification, deletion, objection.
Cross-border data transfer regulations.
Data controller and processor obligations.
Creation of a Data Protection Authority (DPA).
📌 The law is still pending enactment. Until it passes, data privacy is loosely governed under general provisions in other laws (e.g., Telecommunications Law and e-Transaction Law).
💻 3. Electronic Transactions – E-Transactions Law No. 15 of 2015
This law provides legal recognition for electronic documents, signatures, and contracts.
Key Provisions:
Legal validity of e-signatures and digital contracts.
Regulation of e-commerce and electronic invoicing.
Support for e-government services and secure communication.
Rules for certification authorities and trust service providers.
🔐 4. Cybersecurity Framework
Jordan has a national cybersecurity policy and institutions in place to improve defense against cyber threats.
Key Institutions:
National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) – Established in 2022 to:
Oversee national cyber defense strategy.
Coordinate incident response and threat analysis.
Protect critical infrastructure (e.g., energy, finance, telecom).
Information & Communications Technology Association (int@j) – Supports digital infrastructure, startups, and cybersecurity training.
Jordan Armed Forces Cyber Command – Handles defense-related cyber operations.
National Cybersecurity Strategy (2022–2025):
Promotes resilience in critical sectors.
Encourages public-private partnerships.
Supports cyber education and awareness campaigns.
Aims to establish certification and security standards.
👮 5. Enforcement Agencies
| Agency | Role |
|---|---|
| Public Security Directorate (Cybercrime Unit) | Investigates cybercrime complaints and coordinates with INTERPOL. |
| Judicial System | Specialized prosecutors and courts handle cybercrime cases. |
| National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) | Leads cyber defense and response efforts. |
🌍 6. International Cooperation
Jordan is actively involved in global cybersecurity efforts:
Member of INTERPOL and ITU cybersecurity initiatives.
Collaborates with UNODC and regional cybercrime programs.
Not a signatory of the Budapest Convention, but aligns with its principles.
📌 Summary: Cyber Law in Jordan
| Legal Area | Law or Status | Enforced By |
|---|---|---|
| Cybercrime | Cybercrime Law No. 17 (2023) | Public Security Directorate |
| Data Protection | Draft Data Protection Law (pending) | N/A (until passed) |
| Electronic Transactions | E-Transactions Law No. 15 (2015) | MoICT |
| Cybersecurity | National Strategy + Cybersecurity Centre | NCSC |
| Free Speech Concerns | Defamation & fake news clauses in cyber law | Human rights groups have raised red flags |
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