Uzbekistan will establish a dedicated cybercrime department within the Uzbek Interior Ministry, amid a surge in digital offenses and increasingly sophisticated online threats.

Presidential press secretary Sherzod Asadov said that the decision was announced by the head of state during a meeting focused on creating a safe urban environment in the capital and developing best practices for effective public security, The Caspian Post reprots via Uzbek media.

Officials noted that the move comes in response to the rapid growth of cybercrime, including personal data theft, the use of artificial intelligence to fake voices and appearances, and the spread of malicious software. These evolving threats, the statement said, require law enforcement agencies to master advanced cyber technologies and AI tools to ensure swift detection and prevention.

Under the new structure, a separate cybercrime department will be set up within the Interior Ministry, with the minister personally overseeing its work. In parallel, the Uzbek Ministry of Justice will establish a specialized unit dedicated to cybercrime and digital law.

The reforms aim to strengthen Uzbekistan’s ability to respond to modern security challenges and protect citizens and institutions in an increasingly digital environment.