Title: The impact of cybercrimes on the achievement of sustainable development goals: an analytical study

Authors: Muaath S. Al-Mulla; May Hammoud; Ahmed Fekry Moussa; Jamal Barafi

Addresses: Kuwait International Law School, Doha Super Motorway, Doha Area, Block 4, P.O. Box 59062, 93151, Kuwait ' Kuwait International Law School, Doha Super Motorway, Doha Area, Block 4, P.O. Box 59062, 93151, Kuwait ' Al Ain University, P.O. Box 112612, Abu Dhabi, UAE ' University of Sharjah, University City Rd., University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Abstract: The study aims to highlight the impact of cybercrimes on achieving the goals of sustainable development. Artificial intelligence has changed the methods of these crimes and exacerbated the problem of the lack of sufficient international cooperation to reduce their effects, as well as the loss of efforts towards the idea of cybersecurity. We followed a descriptive-analytical approach that begins by explaining the development of cybercrimes, from the stage of human control to the stage of auto-control by machines, to highlight the weakness of the law and the faltering international efforts to confront these crimes and mitigate their effects. The study provides evidence that current national laws and international agreements are not effective in combating these crimes and reducing their risks to sustainable development. Recommendations include unifying international efforts to conclude an international agreement obligating the parties to confront these crimes.

Keywords: cybercrime; artificial intelligence; sustainable development; law; international cooperation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESDF.2026.152245

International Journal of Electronic Security and Digital Forensics, 2026 Vol.18 No.2, pp.240 - 259

Received: 07 Dec 2023
Accepted: 04 Mar 2024
Published online: 12 Mar 2026 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article