In Video: Major Saud Al-Wazan: Cybercrime unit receives 3,000 complaints and cases annually

Mansour Al-Sultan

Major Saud Anwar Al-Wazan, from the Cybercrime Combat Department under the General Directorate of Criminal Investigations, confirmed that the department receives approximately 3,000 complaints and cases annually related to “cybercrimes.”

In an interview with Al-Anbaa, Major Al-Wazan discussed the landscape of cybercrime in Kuwait, highlighting the prominent cases handled by the department, the challenges faced by security personnel in tracking perpetrators, the impact of artificial intelligence on evolving criminal methods, the risks threatening children and youth, the role of families in prevention, and the importance of awareness, rapid reporting, and preserving digital evidence. These discussions are part of the awareness campaign “Protection and Safety,” organized by the Security Media Department of the Ministry of Interior since the start of the 2026–2027 academic year.

He noted that cybercrimes in the country are witnessing a noticeable evolution in their nature and methods, driven by the significant expansion in the use of electronic means and platforms. He pointed out that fraud, identity theft, phishing, data and personal account theft, as well as targeting bank accounts, have become among the most prominent types of crimes addressed by the competent authorities.

He revealed that the cases received by the Cybercrime Combat Department vary between threats, extortion, fraud, deception, misuse of mobile phones, defamation, violations of public morals, and incitement to indecency. He emphasized that handling these cases requires swift response, precision in collecting digital evidence, and tracking the electronic traces associated with each incident.

He added that the rapid advancement in modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, has created new types of challenges, as it is now possible to use deepfake technologies, manipulate images and videos, and mimic voices in fraud or identity theft operations. He stressed the importance of not treating any image, recording, or message as authentic simply because it appears convincing.

Colonel Saud Al-Wazan emphasized that the virtual world is not beyond the reach of the law, and that using social media does not exempt users from legal responsibility. He clarified that freedom of expression is guaranteed within the bounds of the law, but this freedom does not extend to committing criminal acts such as threats, extortion, defamation, fraud, or violations of others’ privacy. All these issues and others were addressed by Colonel Saud Al-Wazan during the meeting; their details follow.

How would you describe the current state of cybercrime in Kuwait? Is cybercrime witnessing development in its nature and methods of commission?

Cybercrime in the State of Kuwait is witnessing a noticeable development in terms of its nature and methods of commission, amid the growing reliance on electronic fraud, identity theft, phishing, and the theft of data and personal accounts on social media platforms, alongside the targeting of bank accounts. Criminal methods have become more complex, leveraging modern technologies and artificial intelligence to carry out certain fraud operations. This requires continuous enhancement of public awareness, development of protection and security response systems, and prompt reporting of any cybercrime or fraud attempt.

What are the main challenges facing the Cybercrime Department in pursuing those involved?

Among the most prominent challenges facing the Department, given this rapid technological advancement, is the swift evolution of cybercrime methods and techniques, and the use by perpetrators of multiple means to conceal their identities and locations. Additionally, some crimes are committed from outside the country, and there are multiple jurisdictions involved. The rapid deletion or encryption of digital evidence, along with the diversity of electronic platforms, also pose challenges that require swift response and handling of reports, as well as the importance of continuous cooperation with relevant authorities and technology service providers.

How does the Department keep pace with the rapid development in the means and techniques used to commit cybercrimes?

The Department keeps pace with this development through continuous training and qualification of specialized personnel, updating the technical tools and systems used to monitor and analyze cybercrimes, and enhancing cooperation and information exchange with relevant authorities locally and internationally.

This comes in order to keep pace with the latest methods and technologies used in combating cybercrime, and to enhance the capacity to deal with emerging patterns of crime and electronic fraud.

With the widespread proliferation of artificial intelligence, have new crimes emerged that rely on deepfake and manipulation technologies for images and audio?

Yes, the methods used to commit certain cybercrimes have evolved with the spread of artificial intelligence technologies, including the use of deepfake and image and video manipulation techniques, as well as voice cloning, for the purpose of fraud or impersonating other individuals.

The danger lies in these technologies’ ability to produce content that, in some cases, appears convincing to the average user. Criminals may exploit this in fraud, impersonation, or victim-trapping operations. This requires raising public awareness and exercising caution with digital content, refraining from treating it as authentic simply because it appears as a convincing image or sound.

To what extent can artificial intelligence be used to impersonate another person or mimic their voice?

Artificial intelligence technologies have become capable of producing content that mimics people’s images and voices to an advanced degree. Some individuals may exploit this criminally to impersonate another person or to deceive victims into believing that a call or message originates from someone they know or from a trusted entity.

These technologies may also be employed in attempts at electronic fraud or to obtain personal and banking data, or to coerce victims into executing financial transfers or specific procedures. Therefore, one should not rely solely on images or audio to verify a person’s identity, especially when it comes to banking data, financial transfers, or verification codes.

AI Deepfakes

Have AI-based deepfake technologies become a new challenge for cybercrime-fighting agencies?

Certainly. AI-based deepfake technologies represent one of the modern challenges in the field of cybercrime, albeit within the context of the continuous and rapid evolution of cybercrime methods.

The Administration addresses these developments by keeping pace with modern technologies, enhancing the competence of specialized personnel, and developing examination and analysis tools for digital evidence, thereby facilitating the handling of new crime patterns and determining the nature of the digital content used in each incident.

How is the Administration preparing to confront crimes that may result from the criminal use of artificial intelligence?

The Administration continuously monitors technological developments and modern criminal methods, alongside training and qualifying specialized personnel and developing examination and analysis tools commensurate with the rapid advancements in the technology sector. The Administration also strives to strengthen cooperation and exchange information and expertise with relevant entities, and to monitor emerging criminal patterns, thereby contributing to enhancing the ability to detect cybercrimes and respond to them with the required speed and efficiency.

What about transforming artificial intelligence from a tool used by criminals into a means that assists law enforcement in uncovering crimes?

Artificial intelligence itself is not a tool inherently linked to crime; rather, its benefit or danger depends on the nature of its use.

Just as it can be exploited to commit certain cybercrimes, its technologies can also be employed to support security operations. Modern technologies can be leveraged across multiple fields, including the analysis of large volumes of data and digital evidence, monitoring suspicious patterns, and supporting search and analysis operations, thereby enhancing the capabilities of competent authorities in confronting cybercrimes and keeping pace with rapid technological advancements.

Application of Existing Laws

Are there specific legislations regarding artificial intelligence issues? And if a law exists, is there an intention to amend it?

Crimes involving artificial intelligence technologies are handled in accordance with existing laws and regulations, provided that the legal descriptions criminalizing such acts apply, whether they involve fraud, identity theft, privacy violations, or other acts criminalized under current legislation. As for introducing new legislation specifically for artificial intelligence or amending existing laws, this falls under the purview of the competent legislative authorities. Meanwhile, the Administration applies existing laws and regulations and keeps abreast of any new updates or legislation issued in this field.

How does the Administration distinguish between freedom of expression and content that constitutes a cybercrime?

Distinction is made based on the content’s substance, nature, and degree of violation of existing laws. Freedom of expression is guaranteed within legal limits; however, this freedom does not extend to committing acts criminalized by law or infringing upon the rights of others. Consequently, each report is handled according to its circumstances and context, and the content in question is examined. Digital evidence is analyzed and the facts are verified before taking appropriate legal measures, ensuring that the law is applied in accordance with the nature of each case.

Raising Awareness

What is your role in educating the public and raising awareness about the risks of misuse of cyberspace?

Raising awareness and providing security education represent a fundamental aspect of combating cybercrimes. Protecting society does not end with apprehending criminals after offenses occur; rather, it begins with prevention and raising the awareness levels of citizens and residents, informing them about the fraud, phishing, and extortion methods used by cyber gangs. The Ministry of Interior places great emphasis on awareness initiatives through continuous security and media campaigns, foremost among which is the “Waqaia… and Safety” awareness campaign launched by the Security Media Administration. This campaign aims to enhance security culture among various segments of society, including highlighting the risks faced by users of electronic devices and platforms, particularly children and youth, as well as educating parents on the necessity of monitoring their children’s electronic usage and guiding them toward safe practices in the digital world. Furthermore, in accordance with an awareness plan, we continuously organize lectures and seminars in schools and universities and participate in exhibitions hosted by the Ministry of Interior.

Message to Parents

What message do you convey to parents regarding monitoring their children’s use of devices and electronic platforms?

We convey a message to parents emphasizing the necessity of monitoring their children’s use of smart devices and electronic platforms, understanding the applications they use and the nature of their interaction with them, and establishing clear and appropriate usage rules.

At the same time, monitoring should not become a source of fear or mistrust; rather, it should be based on dialogue, guidance, and awareness, so that the child feels able to turn to their parents if they encounter any unsafe situation, or attempt at grooming or extortion. We also advise families to educate their children about the importance of keeping passwords and personal data secure, and not to share private photos or sensitive information with others.

Electronic Grooming of Children

Does the administration detect attempts to groom children through online games or social media platforms?

Yes, attempts to groom children may occur through conversations within online games or on social media platforms. These attempts may begin naturally through acquaintance, gaming, or dialogue, and then gradually evolve into requests for personal information or private photos, or attempts to move the conversation to a more private communication channel. This highlights the importance of educating children not to treat unknown individuals as trustworthy simply because communication has continued for a period of time, and to inform their families immediately if there is any unusual request or situation that raises suspicion or fear.

What signs can families observe that indicate a child may be facing an electronic problem?

There are several indicators that may catch the family’s attention, such as sudden changes in the child’s behavior, signs of fear or anxiety while using the phone, hiding conversations or accounts, social withdrawal, or receiving repeated messages from unknown accounts. Other signs that warrant attention include unusual requests for money, or visible tension when receiving certain notifications or calls. The appearance of any of these signs does not necessarily mean the child is a victim of cybercrime, but they are indicators that warrant calm dialogue to understand what the child is facing, without intimidation or reprimand, so that they can disclose the problem and seek help.

Do you believe current legislation keeps pace with the rapid development of cybercrimes?

Yes, current legislation largely keeps pace with developments in the field of cybercrimes. However, the rapid advancement of technologies and methods used to commit cybercrimes necessitates the continuous review and updating of certain laws to ensure they keep up with technological developments and address new tactics that cybercriminals may employ.

What are the most important penalties that social media users should be aware of to avoid falling under the scope of the law?

Social media users must understand that using these platforms does not exempt them from legal responsibility. Certain actions may expose the perpetrator to accountability and punishment, including crimes such as threats and extortion, unauthorized access to systems and accounts, incitement to lewdness and indecency, as well as certain offensive comments and content that may constitute a violation or crime depending on the circumstances and governing laws.

Are there cybercrimes that some individuals commit without realizing that their actions constitute a violation or crime?

Yes, there are certain actions committed by individuals on social media without their awareness that they may constitute a violation or a crime punishable by law. Prominent examples include offensive comments or posts that contain insult or defamation of others. Therefore, a person’s lack of knowledge of the legal consequences does not necessarily mean the act is exempt from accountability, which underscores the necessity of verifying content before publishing or sharing it.

What impacts have you observed regarding the use of fabricated images or audio recordings?

How can you confront this? Yes, the use of fabricated images, recordings, and clips can cause significant harm to people’s lives and reputations, especially if an inaccurate conversation is published, or an audio or video clip is doctored and circulated as genuine. With the advancement of artificial intelligence technologies, it has become possible to produce content that appears realistic in some cases, which requires caution and refraining from circulating any content before verifying its authenticity. In contrast, the Cybercrime Prevention Department possesses the technical means that help examine digital content and verify whether images, recordings, or clips have been altered or fabricated.

Defamation and Extortion

When does a fake account transform from a means of concealment into evidence incriminating its owner? A fake account, which some believe is a means of concealment, can become a tool that reveals its owner when it is used for illegal purposes, such as defaming, insulting, extorting, or threatening individuals, or publishing content that could harm others or violate the law. The key factor is not the account’s name or appearance, but the actions committed through it.

What message do you convey to those who believe the virtual world is beyond the reach of the law? The virtual world is not an exception to the law, and what a person does electronically may expose them to legal accountability. Relevant authorities monitor activities in cyberspace, and legal measures will be taken against anyone who violates the law.

How many complaints and cases does the Cybercrime Prevention Department receive annually, and what are the most prominent types? The Cybercrime Prevention Department receives approximately 3,000 complaints and cases annually. These vary in type, with the most prominent being threats, extortion, fraud, deception, misuse of mobile phones, defamation, violations of public morals, and incitement to indecency and obscenity.

What is the most important advice you offer to users of mobile phones and social media? Prevention begins with awareness and vigilance in dealing with electronic platforms. Personal and banking data should not be shared, links from unknown sources should be avoided, strong and unique passwords should be used, two-factor authentication should be enabled, and the identity of the party one is interacting with should always be verified.

Moreover, raising children’s awareness and monitoring their internet usage constitute an important aspect of family protection, as many cybercrimes stem from excessive trust or simple actions taken without considering their consequences.

How are websites that publish content explaining the use of weapons or the manufacture of explosives handled?

There may be websites or accounts that publish content related to the use of weapons or the manufacture of explosives. These are monitored and addressed according to the nature of the content and its purpose. If incitement or instruction with the intent to commit criminal acts or threaten security is identified, the necessary legal measures are taken in coordination with the competent authorities. Cases and similar content have previously been handled based on the findings of investigations, technical evidence, and the legal procedures followed.

How is prohibited content circulated via social media platforms handled?

The content is monitored and technically verified, efforts are made to identify the account holder, and digital evidence related to the incident is collected. Subsequently, legal measures are taken and the case is referred to the competent authority. It is important for social media users to understand that online publishing does not mean escaping accountability; digital content can be traced and documented, and it can be used to identify the perpetrator.

Violence among youth

What is your role in curbing violence among juveniles and youth on social media?

Our role involves early monitoring of content that includes threats, incitement, bullying, or calls for violence, and taking the necessary legal measures, alongside preventive and awareness-raising initiatives. In this regard, the family and the school remain essential partners in protecting children through monitoring, awareness, and early intervention, which helps address risky behaviors before they develop into actual problems or crimes.

In response to a question about how families can protect their children from cyber extortion and grooming, Major Saud Al-Wazan stated that protection begins with awareness, monitoring, and building a relationship based on trust and dialogue between children and their parents, while teaching children not to share photos or personal information with strangers and not to respond to suspicious requests or move to private conversations with unknown individuals. He added that children should be encouraged to inform their families immediately if they face any threat or suspicious situation, and they should be assured that seeking help and reporting the problem is the right course of action, whereas fear or attempting to conceal the incident may complicate handling it. He emphasized that the family is a fundamental partner in protecting children from the risks of cyberspace through continuous monitoring.

When asked about the most prominent risks faced by children and youth, who are among the most frequent users of cyberspace, Major Saud Al-Wazan noted that there are several risks that children and youth may encounter while using cyberspace, including cyber extortion, bullying, fraud, and the theft of accounts and personal data, in addition to communicating with unknown individuals who may attempt to groom or exploit them.

He continued: Some grooming attempts may begin in an apparently normal manner through a conversation or friendship on one of the platforms, then gradually evolve into requests for personal information or private photos, or a shift to more private conversations. This may expose the child or youth to exploitation and extortion. Therefore, awareness, parental supervision, and continuous dialogue with children are key elements in preventing these risks.

The awareness campaign “Waqaia.. and Safety,” launched by the Security Media Department of the Ministry of Interior, plays a vital role in strengthening security and media literacy across various segments of society, and in disseminating awareness messages in a simplified manner that keeps pace with emerging challenges and risks. This achievement deserves commendation and praise.

This success is the result of the sincere efforts made by the campaign’s organizers, led by Colonel Mishaari Ahmed Al-Samhan, Director of the Security Media Department within the General Directorate of Relations and Security Media at the Ministry of Interior, along with the continuous efforts of the team in preparing and implementing awareness programs and messages that enhance the partnership between the security institution and the community.

The campaign has emphasized that awareness represents the first line of defense against various risks, and that reaching different segments of society with clear and purposeful security messages contributes to raising awareness and prevention levels, while reinforcing community responsibility in maintaining security and safety.