This paper is aimed at presenting the new statutory regulation regarding protective measures in a cross-cutting manner as to determine their current character. Addressing such issue is crucial for establishing connection between protective measures and prohibited acts. Findings presented in this paper allow embracing an interpretation of the terms “prohibited act” and “significant social harmfulness” that is contrary to the one that is commonly recognized. These findings may also provide an argument against applying the intertemporal principles of the criminal law to protective measures.