*** MP Seeks Jail for Bank Data Theft | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

MP Seeks Jail for Bank Data Theft

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A proposal submitted to Bahrain’s Parliament seeks tougher penalties, including jail terms, for anyone who unlawfully obtains, holds, or shares bank card or electronic payment data.

The draft law, introduced by MP Dr. Ali Al Nuaimi, would amend the Information Technology Crimes Law to criminalise access to credit card numbers, bank account details, and other digital payment information through electronic systems.

Under the proposal, offenders could face at least six months in prison if intent to misuse the data is proven, and a minimum of one year if financial theft occurs. The same penalty would apply to those who publish or redistribute such sensitive information.

The bill, currently under review by the Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee, aims to strengthen legal protections as financial transactions increasingly move online.

Dr. Al Nuaimi said the legislation is necessary due to the growing use of digital payment tools and rising cyber-related crimes, warning that such offences undermine both individuals and public trust in the banking system.