COMPARISON OF THE CYBERCRIME PREVENTION LAWS IN INDIA AND THE UNITED KINGDOM

AUTHOR – NISHANT SINGH* & MS.ADYA PANDEY**      

*STUDENT AT AMITY UNIVERSITY LUCKNOW

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT AMITY UNIVERSITY LUCKNOW CAMPUS

BEST CITATION – NISHANT SINGH & MS.ADYA PANDEY, COMPARISON OF THE CYBERCRIME PREVENTION LAWS IN INDIA AND THE UNITED KINGDOM, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (4) OF 2025, PG. 874-880, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

ABSTRACT

As global cybercrime rises, strong regulatory frameworks are needed to mitigate digital hazards. We examine the legislative basis, enforcement tactics, and recent modifications of two UK and Indian cybercrime prevention legislation. The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act), India’s main cybercrime law, covers unauthorised access, data theft, and electronic fraud. Recent changes and upcoming laws aim to improve data privacy and align it with global standards. However, outdated regulations, strict enforcement, and funding issues persist. Decentralised enforcement institutions like Cyber Crime Cells, CERT-IN, and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal handle poorly coordinated activities. The Computer Misuse Act of 1990, Fraud Act of 2006, and Data Protection Act of 2018 (which includes GDPR) expand the UK’s legal framework. These guidelines provide a firm framework for fighting various cybercrimes with the support of the National Crime Agency (NCA), Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), and National Cyber Crime Unit (NCCU). UK plan includes modern tools, education, and strong international collaboration. The study reveals similarities and differences in the two nations’ legal systems. Both nations struggle with legislative changes, enforcement efficacy, and privacy issues despite their reliance on robust laws and specialist enforcement. Cybercrime prevention requires updating and modernising legislation, strengthening enforcement, improving international collaboration, and raising public awareness. Focussing on cybercrime and digital environment protection may help India and the UK.

Keywords: Cybercrime, Information Technology Act, Computer Misuse Act, Data Protection Act, enforcement mechanisms, international cooperation, legislative frameworks, cybersecurity.