NEED OF INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATION REGARDING CYBER CRIMES: PAKISTAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This research study focused on computer and internet have benefitted man immensely but have also simultaneously begotten cybercrimes having serious implications on society. The international community is seriously concerned about the surge of cybercrimes. Inadequacy of domestic cyber laws and lack of international cooperation in the field hamper to fight this menace. The difficulty to establish jurisdiction in the ubiquitous and borderless cyberspace, while investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes, further adds to the issue. Current domestic laws governing cybercrimes in many states are weak to combat cyber offenses. The conventional legal mechanisms cannot cope with the adverse aftermath of the mushrooming Information Technology which renders the cyberspace a sanctuary for criminals who torment the unwary internet users. Prosecuting these anonymous and veiled offenders require appropriate legal framework at national and international level. Some international institutions like UN and other organs are striving to fight cybercrimes and likewise the Council of Europe has introduced an international treaty in this regard. It is the only available treaty about cybercrimes with many benefits for the member states. This research article has also focused on the grey areas in domestic criminal laws relating cybercrimes in a global perspective. The study concludes that Budapest Treaty is the best international legal framework to fight cybercrimes and needs the comity of nations to ally with.

Keywords: Cybercrime, Cyberspace, Cyberlaws, Jurisdiction, Pakistan