Revamping India’s Cybercrime Laws: The Need for Urgent Reforms
Cybercriminals are growing bolder, taking advantage of outdated laws that fail to address the complexities of cybercrime in the digital age. According to experts, significant changes are needed at the legislative level to effectively combat this evolving threat.
The current Indian penal code, originating from the British colonial era, does not adequately address the transnational nature of cybercrime. As criminals can operate from different states or countries, there is a pressing need to update laws and law enforcement procedures to align with the borderless nature of these crimes.
Leading cybersecurity experts like Prof Triveni Singh advocate for the establishment of a national-level cybercrime investigation bureau, enhanced training for law enforcement agencies, and the creation of cyberforensic labs at every police station. Additionally, there is a call for the introduction of a comprehensive IT Crimes Law with stringent penalties and expedited judicial processes to effectively deter cybercriminals.
Moreover, experts emphasize the need for better cooperation between state and federal authorities, as well as the establishment of a central agency to oversee cybercrime investigations. With the rise of financial cybercrimes, suggestions have been made for the Reserve Bank of India to implement stricter measures to detect fraudulent activities and prevent the proliferation of mule accounts.
In conclusion, to combat the rising threat of cybercrime effectively, it is imperative for India to modernize its legal framework, enhance law enforcement capabilities, and foster better collaboration between regulatory bodies at both the state and national levels.
(The author is a freelance journalist. Views are her own)
Published 12 May 2024, 22:33 IST