The government has issued the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025, aimed at preventing and prosecuting cybercrimes while safeguarding fundamental rights in digital spaces.

The ordinance, published in an official gazette on May 21, came into immediate effect, and the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs confirmed it to BSS.

Ministry spokesperson Dr Md Rezaul Karim said the 32-page ordinance replaces the Cyber Security Act, 2023, which had been criticized for inadequate civil protections and alleged misuse.

According to the gazette, the new ordinance was issued by the President to address the shortcomings of the previous law, which reportedly enabled abuse and infringed on fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression.

Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul had earlier noted that the ordinance would be issued promptly after legal vetting. He highlighted key changes, including the recognition of internet access as a civic right—a first in Bangladesh.

The ordinance also criminalises online gambling and explicitly defines cyber-based harassment and sexual abuse of women and children as punishable offences.

Experts view the move as a significant shift in the country’s digital legal framework, aiming to strike a balance between cybercrime prevention and the protection of individual rights online.