In recent developments, the Supreme Court of India has urged the Centre to consider ratifying the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime. This pivotal convention was adopted by member states of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in December 2024, marking a significant step towards strengthening global cooperation in the fight against cybercrime.
The primary aim of this convention is to promote international collaboration, enhance preventive measures, and support capacity-building initiatives, particularly in developing countries. It is set to become effective 90 days after the 40th State ratifies it. Notably, India has yet to sign this treaty, which stands as the first universal legally binding instrument designed to bolster collective defenses against cybercrime.
Developed by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the convention outlines legal standards for addressing offenses such as illegal access, cyber fraud, and online child exploitation, all while ensuring the protection of human rights and data privacy. It provides states with a comprehensive range of measures to prevent and combat cybercrime effectively.
A critical aspect of the convention is its facilitation of electronic evidence sharing across borders, alongside the establishment of a 24/7 cooperation network among states. Additionally, it recognizes offenses like the non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, expanding its applicability to cover not only cyber offenses but also the collection and sharing of electronic evidence in serious crimes.
The convention addresses a wide array of cybercrimes, including hacking, ransomware, online financial fraud, illegal interception, and money laundering. It aims to create a robust framework for tackling these issues on a global scale, ensuring that nations are better equipped to handle the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
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