The cybercrime in Bulgaria
Many clients asked for a legal help as a victims of the cybercrime in Bulgaria.
Cybercrime in Bulgaria refers to any illegal act committed through or directed at an information system, causing harm to individuals or legal entities.
As digital threats continue to evolve, understanding the Bulgarian Criminal Code’s provisions on cybercrime is essential for protecting your rights and ensuring legal compliance.
What is cybercrime in Bulgaria?
Cybercrime encompasses a broad range of illegal activities related to information systems and computer data.
According to Article 93, item 21 of the Criminal Code, an information system is defined as any device or interconnected devices that enable automatic data processing.
Computer data (Article 93, paragraph 22) refers to any facts, information, or concepts that can be processed within these systems.
In the context of cybercrime, a payment instrument (Article 93, item 24) is any tool that facilitates the transfer of money or monetary value, while a computer network (Article 93, item 25) is a set of interconnected info
rmation systems.
Types of Cybercrime in Bulgaria
1. Unauthorized Access to Information Systems
One of the most severe forms of cybercrime is unauthorized access to an information system.
Under Article 319a of the Criminal Code, this offense can lead to imprisonment for up to six years and fines of up to three thousand leva.
If the crime involves multiple offenders or repeated actions, penalties can increase to seven years in prison and fines of up to twenty thousand leva.
2. Unauthorized Modification or Deletion of Computer Data
Unauthorized actions such as
- adding,
- copying,
- using,
- modifying, or
- deleting computer data
are punishable under Article 319b Criminal code.
Offenders may face up to six years of imprisonment and fines up to 10 000 (ten) thousand leva.
In cases where significant damage occurs, penalties can reach seven years in prison and fines of up to twenty thousand leva.
3. Cyber Fraud
Cyber fraud involves the unauthorized manipulation of computer data or the misuse of someone else’s electronic signature for personal gain.
As detailed in Article 212a, this offense can result in imprisonment of one to 6 (six) years and fines up to 6000 (six) thousand leva.
4. Spread of Computer Viruses
Distributing computer viruses that cause significant damage, disrupt information systems is serious cybercrime in Bulgaria.
Such activities not only compromise the integrity and functionality of critical infrastructure
This also pose significant risks to national security and public safety.
The spread of malicious software can lead to the unauthorized access of sensitive information, financial losses, and the paralysis of essential services.
Law enforcement agencies are actively collaborating with international partners to
- track,
- investigate, and
- prosecute those responsible for cyberattacks
, ensuring that perpetrators face justice and that the country’s digital environment remains secure.
Article 319c Criminal code stipulates penalties of up to seven years in prison and fines up to 5000 (five) thousand BGN.
What to Do If You’re a Victim of Cybercrime
If you suspect that you are a victim of cybercrime, the first step is to report the authorities
The relevant authority is the General Directorate for Combatting Organized Crime (GDBOP)
Why Legal Assistance is Crucial
The Bulgarian legal system provides strong protections against cybercrime.
Consulting a qualified lawyer with expertise in cybercrime is vital to safeguard your rights and ensure that you receive appropriate legal assistance throughout the process.
Cybercrime in Bulgaria covers a wide array of illegal activities, from unauthorized access to information systems to cyber fraud and the spread of computer viruses.
Understanding your rights and knowing how to protect yourself is essential in today’s digital world.
For personalized legal advice and assistance, consult an experienced cybercrime lawyer in Bulgaria.
For more information or to seek legal advice, contact us today on +359 888 23 16 39 or send us a message : office@lawyer-bulgaria.bg
Protect your digital life with expert legal support.