Restrictions will be applied to websites in Azerbaijan for hosting certain types of information.
“Elchi” reports that President Ilham Aliyev has approved amendments to the Criminal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Law “On Information, Informatization and Protection of Information” in this regard.
According to the document, access to an internet information resource or its relevant part will be temporarily restricted based on a decision by the relevant executive authority in cases where information is posted regarding: methods and procedures for the preparation or use of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and their precursors; locations for their illegal acquisition; locations or methods for the cultivation of plants containing narcotic substances; information of an insulting or defamatory nature; information violating the privacy of personal life; as well as false information that poses a threat of harm to human life and health, causing significant property damage, mass violation of public safety, disruption of the operation of life-support facilities, financial, transport, communication, industrial, energy, and social infrastructure facilities, or other socially dangerous consequences.
The document also notes that gambling will be punishable by restriction of liberty for a term of 2 to 4 years or imprisonment for the same term, with a fine of up to double the income derived from the crime, if committed:
– in a virtual form, including the use of the internet, mobile communication networks, social media platforms, other electronic communication means, as well as internet and mobile telecommunication applications or other technology-based platforms;
– by allowing minors to participate in gambling;
– by a group of persons acting in prior collusion;
– by generating a significant amount of income.
Furthermore, if committed by an organized group or criminal association (criminal organization), or by generating a large amount of income, it will be punishable by restriction of liberty for a term of 3 to 5 years or imprisonment for the same term.