This article will guide you to learn about cybercrime and cyber law in Nepal.
Introduction to Cybercrime
Illegal action carried out online or via digital devices is said as cybercrime. Simply defined, cybercrime is any illegal or criminal behavior directed online or through computer networks. Due to the overall availability of mobile phones and the internet, cybercrime has dramatically expanded, particularly through messaging applications and social media.
Types of Cybercrime
Cyberbullying
Bullying or harassing someone online, often through social media platforms or messaging apps.
Illegal Activities
Using the internet for unlawful purposes, such as drug trafficking or human trafficking.
Phishing Scams
Sending fraudulent emails or messages to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information like passwords or financial details.
Hacking
Unauthorized access to computer systems or networks to steal information or disrupt operations.
Identity Theft
Stealing someone’s personal information, such as credit card numbers or social security numbers, for fraudulent purposes.
Malware Attacks
Spreading malicious software like viruses or ransomware to compromise computer systems or steal data.
Key Legal Provisions of Cyber Law in Nepal
Electronic Transactions Act, 2063
Prohibits the publication or display of illegal material on electronic media, punishable by a fine of up to One Hundred Thousand Rupees or imprisonment for up to five years.
Deals with unauthorized access to computer systems or networks, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Addresses the destruction, alteration, or piracy of computer source code, with punishments of imprisonment or fines.
Children’s Act, 1992
Protects children’s rights and prohibits the circulation or capture of child pornography or immoral pictures of children.
This applies to individuals below the age of 16, providing legal safeguards against exploitation or abuse.
Copyright Act, 2002
Protects original works of authorship and copyright ideas, including computer software and artistic works.
Prohibits the unauthorized alteration or copying of original works for economic gain without proper authorization.
Individual Privacy Act, 2018
Grants individuals the right to privacy as a fundamental right and protects personal information from unsanctioned invasion.
Prohibits the transfer of personal data without the owner’s consent and imposes penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines.
Reporting Cybercrime in Nepal
The Cyber Bureau is the main authority responsible for handling cybercrime cases in Nepal. Citizens can report cybercrimes to this bureau, which investigates and takes appropriate legal action against offenders.
Punishments for Cybercrime
The Electronic Transactions Act, of 2063 outlines specific punishments for various cyber offenses:
Pirating, destroying, or altering computer source code can result in imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to two hundred thousand Rupees.
Unauthorized access to computer materials may lead to imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to two hundred thousand Rupees.
Damage to computers and information systems can result in imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to two thousand Rupees.
Publishing illegal materials in electronic form may lead to imprisonment for up to five years or a fine of up to one hundred thousand Rupees.
Committing computer fraud can result in imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to one hundred thousand Rupees.
Conclusion – Cybercrime and Cyber Law in Nepal
In conclusion, cybercrime is a major concern in Nepal due to the widespread use of the internet and digital technology. Nepal has implemented strong cyber laws like the Electronic Transactions Act, of 2063, to combat these threats and protect citizens.
Through legal provisions outlined in various acts, individuals engaging in cybercriminal activities face strict penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The establishment of the Cyber Bureau provides a mechanism for citizens to report cybercrimes, ensuring that offenders are investigated and prosecuted accordingly.
Also, Read Digital Rights Laws in Nepal
