Cyber Contravention and Adjudication Process, Cyber Offence and Investigation, and Jurisdictional Issues in Cyberspace
Cyber Contravention and Adjudication Process, Cyber Offence and Investigation, and Jurisdictional Issues in Cyberspace 1. Introduction In the digital age, the internet has become an essential part of business, communication, and governance. However, the rise of cyberspace has also led to cybercrimes — like hacking, identity theft, financial fraud, and online harassment. To handle these issues, India enacted the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) — the main law governing offences, contraventions, and adjudication in cyberspace. 2. Meaning of Cyber Contravention “Contravention” refers to violations of the IT Act that are not criminal offences , but civil wrongs (like breach of electronic contract or unauthorized access). These result in financial penalties , not imprisonment. Examples of Cyber Contraventions (Civil Wrongs): Unauthorized access to computer data. Failure to protect sensitive personal data (Sec. 43A). Publishing obscene material electronic...