Prepared by: Assistant Lecturer Noor Ali Shakir Introduction The rapid advancement of information and communication technologies has significantly transformed the operation and management of critical infrastructure and engineering facilities. Essential sectors, including electricity, water, telecommunications, and industrial operations, have become increasingly dependent on interconnected digital systems and automated control technologies. Although this transformation has enhanced operational efficiency and reliability, it has simultaneously exposed these facilities to sophisticated cyber threats. Consequently, cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure have emerged as a serious concern, not only from a technological perspective but also in terms of legal accountability, public safety, and national security. First: The Concept of Cybercrime Against Engineering Facilities Cybercrime targeting engineering facilities encompasses unlawful activities directed at digital networks, information systems, and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) responsible for operating and managing critical infrastructure. Such activities include unauthorized access to industrial control networks, disruption of energy and water supply systems, theft of confidential engineering data and technical designs, deployment of malicious software, and manipulation of automated operational processes. Second: The Consequences of Cyberattacks The implications of cyberattacks extend beyond financial and technological losses. They may jeopardize human safety, interrupt essential public services, cause environmental damage, and undermine the operational stability of critical institutions. For instance, unauthorized interference with industrial control systems may disrupt essential operations, damage engineering equipment, or create hazardous conditions that threaten both workers and surrounding communities. Third: Legal Liability for Cybercrimes Cyberattacks against engineering facilities raise complex legal questions concerning criminal responsibility and civil liability for resulting damages. Such liability may involve the perpetrators of cyberattacks, entities responsible for operating and securing digital infrastructure, or other parties whose negligence or failure to implement adequate cybersecurity measures contributes to the occurrence of damage. Determining liability requires examining the applicable legal framework, establishing the causal relationship between the unlawful conduct and the resulting harm, and evaluating relevant digital and technical evidence. Fourth: Prevention and Legal Protection Mechanisms Effective protection requires an integrated approach combining technical safeguards, institutional policies, and legal measures. Essential measures include strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure, conducting periodic security assessments, implementing internationally recognized security standards, training technical personnel, and establishing effective incident response mechanisms. Furthermore, legislative frameworks should be developed to address cyberattacks against critical infrastructure, define the obligations of relevant parties, and ensure appropriate accountability and compensation for resulting damages. Conclusion The protection of critical infrastructure and engineering facilities has evolved from a purely technical concern into a multidimensional legal, institutional, and security responsibility. Strengthening cooperation between legal specialists, engineers, and cybersecurity professionals is essential to mitigating cyber risks, safeguarding essential services, and ensuring the resilience and sustainability of critical infrastructure in the digital age. References Iraqi Penal Code No. 111 of 1969, as amended. Council of Europe, Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest Convention), 2001. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity.