Cyber Laws are the recent developments that came into being with the
advent of Internet to regulate, control and facilitate the electronic
communication and commerce.
Basically “Cyber” refers to imaginary space, which is created when the
electronic devices communicate, like network of computers, mobiles,
etc. Cyber Laws, therefore, regulate the legal issues arising out of
this interaction of electronic devices.
Indian Cyber Law is covered under Information Technology Act, 2000, the
main pupose… for which it was passed was to promote E-Commerce in India
by providing for Legal Recognition to Electronic Documents and Digital
Signature.
Currenlty, it mainly provides for:
- Digital Signature
- Electronic Records
- Electronic Governance
- Ceritfying Authorities
- Digital Signature Certificates
- The Cyber Regulations Appellate Tribunal
- Penalty for Cyber Crimes.
- Other penalties
- Miscellaneous Provisions
Though in a broader prespective, Cyber Laws cover laws relating to Data
Protection, Cyber Crimes, E-Governance, Intellectual Property, Digital
Signature and Telecommunications Law.
Certainly, the IT Act has brought recognition to the Electronic
Documents, which can be digitally signed and therefore has provided
boost to the E-Commerce Industry. And NASSCOM survey brings forth the
fact. Further with the amendment made in the related laws, e-documents like emails are also admissible in
evidence.
But with the technological development taking place with such a
fast
pace.
IT Act, 2000 need to be amended every year, if its to provide for
latest technologies and safeguard against new innovative cyber crimes.
And this year's amendments... is the step in this direction only... but
the said amendments are already been criticised on various grounds. In
any case, India has a long way to go… before its Cyber Laws cover all
the major issues involved in Cyber World !!!
