In light of the rapid transformations shaping the digital world, the need for national initiatives that safeguard users against cyber threats and promote digital awareness across society has become increasingly urgent. In response, the National Cyber Extortion Awareness Campaign was launched in 2017 under the slogan “Report It — Your Secret Is Safe,” spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, represented by the National Center for Information Safety, in collaboration with the Royal Oman Police.
This campaign stands out as one of the most prominent ongoing cybersecurity initiatives in Oman, aiming to confront the growing phenomenon of cyber extortion, which witnessed a notable rise in recent years. The campaign was launched following the registration of 324 cyber extortion cases at the beginning of 2017, prompting relevant authorities to take a unified approach to mitigate this digital threat and empower victims to report incidents without hesitation or fear.
The campaign adopts a comprehensive public awareness strategy through media and educational initiatives, including the production and dissemination of digital content via platforms such as Instagram and YouTube. It also organises in-person lectures and workshops in schools and universities to educate young people about the risks of cyber extortion and ways to protect themselves.
In a bid to enhance e-participation, the campaign activated multiple channels for public engagement, including hotlines, digital reporting portals, and official social media pages managed by trained teams capable of handling reports and inquiries with confidentiality and professionalism. These efforts significantly increased reporting rates and enabled faster and more effective responses from relevant authorities, thereby fostering a safer and more trustworthy digital environment.
As part of its ongoing development, the campaign has been regularly updated to keep pace with technological and societal changes. Its reach has expanded to include a wide range of audiences, including digital platform users and students across educational institutions. In 2024, several digital awareness campaigns were implemented in partnership with national stakeholders, reflecting Oman’s commitment to promoting cybersecurity awareness as a pillar of social development and digital justice.
The “Report It — Your Secret Is Safe” campaign exemplifies a successful model of governmental collaboration in addressing digital challenges and underscores the importance of involving the community in safeguarding cyberspace. It also reaffirms Oman’s dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of peace and justice, by protecting individuals in the digital realm and ensuring their rights to privacy and security are upheld.
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