Digital Exploitation Of Women And Children: Legal Remedies In The Cyber Age
Harishkumar B, LLB, School of Law, Vistas, Chennai
R Vimala, Assistant Professor, School of Law, Vistas, Chennai
ABSTRACT
The rapid expansion of digital technologies has transformed communication, governance, education, and commerce worldwide. However, alongside these advancements, cyberspace has emerged as a significant site of exploitation, particularly affecting women and children. Digital exploitation includes cyberstalking, online grooming, non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, identity theft, trafficking through digital platforms, and child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Despite the existence of multiple statutory safeguards in India, enforcement gaps, jurisdictional complexities, and technological challenges continue to hinder effective protection. This paper critically examines the legal framework governing digital exploitation of women and children in India, evaluates judicial responses, and identifies implementation challenges. It argues that while legislative developments such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012, and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 provide a foundational structure, stronger institutional coordination, intermediary accountability, and victim-centric remedies remain necessary. The paper concludes by recommending comprehensive reforms integrating technological innovation, legal modernization, and digital literacy initiatives.
Keywords: cybercrime, women’s safety, child protection, cyber law, digital privacy, online exploitation.
