An Analysis Of The Existing Legal Framework For New Age Cybercrimes In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Dr. Chanjana Elsa Philip, Associate Professor, CMR University School of Legal Studies, Bengaluru
Rahul Gadhoke, LL.M. (Criminal Law), CMR University School of Legal Studies, Bengaluru
ABSTRACT
India’s digital revolution has rapidly reshaped the nation over the past decade, but this progress comes with growing cybersecurity concerns. As technology evolves, so do the methods of cybercriminals, posing serious threats to national security, personal privacy, and public trust. The country’s current legal framework often falls short in effectively addressing these modern cyber offenses. The Information Technology Act, 2000 remains the cornerstone of cyber law in India, yet it requires significant updates to tackle the complexities of today’s digital threats. Traditional provisions under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 are similarly inadequate when applied to cyber- specific crimes. This research explores the pressing need to strengthen India’s legal response to cybercrime. It critically examines whether the existing laws and enforcement mechanisms can keep pace with the evolving nature of digital offenses. The study highlights gaps in legislation, enforcement challenges, and the need for more empowered cyber-specific courts and investigative bodies. It also draws on international best practices, offering valuable lessons for India’s fight against cyber threats. Emerging dangers like deepfake misuse, cryptocurrency fraud, AI-driven cyberattacks, and social media manipulation require urgent legal attention. The growing frequency of data breaches also threatens democratic institutions and individual rights. Through a doctrinal research approach, this study analyses statutory laws, key judgments, and relevant policy documents. Comparative insights from other jurisdictions further enrich the findings. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the urgent need for holistic legal reforms to build a robust, future-ready cybersecurity framework in India.
Keywords: Cybercrime, Information Technology Act, Digital Security, Cyber Forensics, Data Protection, Constitutional Rights, International Cooperation, Legal Framework.
