Day 52 – Q. 2. The UN Convention on Cybercrime marks a major step in global efforts to combat cyber threats. Highlight its key provisions and analyze its significance for India in addressing cross-border cybercrime challenges. (150 words, 10 marks)

Q. 2. The UN Convention on Cybercrime marks a major step in global efforts to combat cyber threats. Highlight its key provisions and analyze its significance for India in addressing cross-border cybercrime challenges. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction 

The UN Convention on Cybercrime, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2024, provides  the first legally binding global framework to address cybercrime through cooperation,  jurisdiction, and procedural tools—vital for digitally expanding nations like India. 

Body 

Key Provisions of the Convention 

1. Criminalisation of Core Cyber-Offences: Establishes offences such as hacking, identity  theft, fraud, child exploitation and ransomware as crimes. 
2. Procedural Tools for Investigation: Enables preservation of electronic evidence, real-time  data interception orders, and expedited search and seizure. 
3. International Cooperation Mechanisms: Mandates mutual legal assistance, designation  of 24/7 contact points, data sharing, and joint cross-border investigations.
4. Human Rights Safeguards: Includes privacy protections, respect for due process, and  limits on surveillance powers. 
5. Capacity Building for Developing States: Promotes technical assistance, training, and  resource sharing, especially for developing countries. 

Significance for India 

1. Bridging Jurisdictional Gaps: Facilitates action against cybercrimes originating abroad,  including phishing and ransomware affecting Indian users. 
2. Strengthening Law Enforcement Agencies : Supports Indian agencies like CERT-In,  NCIIPC, and NIA in gathering and sharing digital evidence internationally.
3. Legal Harmonisation: Pushes reform of the IT Act, 2000 and aligned laws to meet global  standards and obligations under the convention. 
4. Enhancing Citizen Trust: Strengthens protections for digital payments, personal data, and  public infrastructure security. 
5. Global Leadership Role: Shows India’s willingness to lead in crafting a trusted, secure  global digital order. 

Way Forward 

1. Amend Domestic Laws: Revise the IT Act and allied legislation to reflect provisions of the  Convention. 
2. Build Institutional Capacity: Train law enforcement, judiciary, and cyber investigators in  new cross-border procedures. 
3. Deepen International Links: Participate in bilateral and multilateral initiatives, including  with CBI’s Bharatpol and I4C under MHA. 
4. Public Awareness and Collaboration: Raise citizen awareness on cyber hygiene and  encourage reporting of cybercrime. 

Conclusion

India’s involvement in the UN Cybercrime Convention enables it to close jurisdictional gaps,  enhance LEA capacities, and modernise cyber laws. Effective ratification and coordination will  be critical to combat global cyber threats.