Legal Challenges Regarding Online Publishing Crimes on Digital Media Platforms in Saudi Arabia: X Platform as a Model

Abstract

This study aims to identify the legal challenges facing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in addressing electronic publishing crimes through digital media platforms, with X as a case study, in light of the growing use of social media and its increasing role in content creation, dissemination, and public opinion formation. The study examines the major forms of electronic publishing crimes, particularly defamation, privacy violations, the dissemination of rumors and misleading information, as well as the effectiveness of national regulations in regulating digital content and limiting unlawful practices. It also focuses on key legal challenges, including determining legal liability, difficulties in collecting, preserving, and proving digital evidence, overlapping jurisdiction in cross-border cybercrimes, and the rapid development of electronic crime methods compared with the pace of legislative and regulatory development. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach and targets individuals directly related to the research topic, including legal professionals, legislators, and communication experts, using a questionnaire as the main data collection instrument. The study is expected to contribute practical recommendations for developing legal and procedural frameworks, strengthening cooperation between relevant authorities and digital platforms, and increasing users’ legal awareness, thereby contributing to a safer and more effectively regulated digital environment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.