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In the context of intensive digitalization and the global information society, computer crimes pose a growing threat to legal order, security, and personal privacy. The Bulgarian Criminal Code reflects this development through a special regulation set out in Chapter Nine \u201ca\u201d \u2013 Computer Crimes, covering Articles 319a\u2013319e. These provisions incorporate key principles of international law, in particular the Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest Convention), to which Bulgaria is a party.<\/p>\n
The regulation aims to penalize various unlawful acts directed against information systems, computer data, as well as the creation and dissemination of tools intended for such offenses. A computer crime is not merely an infringement of digital property \u2013 it is an attack on essential public and individual interests: the security of personal data, the integrity of public infrastructure, the confidentiality of communications, and trust in digital services.<\/p>\n
Unlawful access to an information system (Art. 319a CC):<\/strong> Unlawful actions with computer data (Art. 319b CC):<\/strong> Disruption of computer system operation (Art. 319c CC):<\/strong> Distribution of malicious software (Art. 319g CC):<\/strong> Unlawful dissemination of tools for computer crimes (Art. 319d CC):<\/strong> Violations in providing information services (Art. 319e CC):<\/strong> Chapter Nine \u201ca\u201d provides a relatively modern and detailed framework for computer crime, but its practical application largely depends on the professionalism of investigators and the judiciary. Given technological dynamics, including deepfake, artificial intelligence, and cryptocurrency attacks, lawmakers will need to continue adapting and refining criminal law mechanisms.<\/p>\n If you or a relative are a victim of a computer crime, it is best to consult a criminal law attorney who can advise and represent you in court. This article does not constitute legal advice or opinion from Atty. Mihail Tomov.<\/p>\n
This article penalizes any person who, without authorization, gains access to an information system or part of it, when the case is not minor. Penalty: imprisonment of up to six years and a fine of up to BGN 3,000. Aggravating circumstances, such as conspiracy, repeated offense, or interference with electronic signature data, increase the sanctions. Particularly severe cases involve classified information or attacks against critical infrastructure.<\/p>\n
Covers unlawful addition, copying, use, modification, transfer, deletion, concealment, or destruction of computer data, as well as blocking access to such data. Penalty: imprisonment up to six years and a fine up to BGN 10,000. Stricter sanctions apply if committed for profit or causing significant damage.<\/p>\n
Applies to acts under Art. 319b concerning data provided by law electronically. Penalty: imprisonment up to seven years and a fine up to BGN 5,000. Harsher sanctions apply if intended to obstruct obligations.<\/p>\n
Criminalizes introducing a computer virus or other program aimed at disrupting system operation, unauthorized access, deletion, or modification of data. Penalty: imprisonment up to seven years and a fine up to BGN 5,000, with stricter penalties for severe harm or repeat offenses.<\/p>\n
Covers creating, acquiring, importing, exporting, transferring, or distributing programs, passwords, codes, or other access data intended for committing crimes under Art. 171(3), Art. 319a\u2013319g CC. Penalty: imprisonment up to six years, harsher if personal or classified data is disclosed.<\/p>\n
Applies to providers who breach obligations under the Law on Electronic Document and Electronic Certification Services (Art. 6(2)(5)).<\/p>\n