"As technology advances, so must our laws and our ability to enforce them."- Senator Dianne Feinstein

Cyberspace is the term for the online environment created by computer networks and the internet, where users may interact, share knowledge, and transact business. Hardware, software, data, and communication protocols are all part of this intricate and constantly changing environment.

Science fiction novelist William Gibson originally used the term "cyberspace" in his 1984 book "Neuromancer." The book defined cyberspace as a virtual environment where users may connect to a vast computer network.

Cyberspace now plays a crucial role in modern life, having an impact on activities including social interaction, entertainment, business, and communication. Cyberspace is anticipated to continue to develop and influence our world in the years to come as a result of the increasing relevance of the internet and digital technology.

The situation of Cyber Connectivity in India:

3rd highest internet users: After China and the US, India has the third-highest percentage of internet users worldwide. India is estimated to have around 687 million internet users as of 2021, and this number is anticipated to rise over the next few years. Factors including the rising affordability of smartphones and data plans, government programmes to promote digital literacy, and the increasing significance of e-commerce and online services have all contributed to India's internet usage's rapid development.

Digitalization is moving quickly: In recent years, India has experienced rapid digitalization, with the government's Digital India initiative playing a crucial role in encouraging the adoption of digital technologies in various economic sectors. By ensuring access to digital infrastructure, services, and literacy, the initiative aims to transform India into a society and knowledge economy empowered by technology.

Rural populations now have easier access to financial services thanks to initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which encourages financial inclusion and the use of digital payment systems.

The Make in India drive, which expects to advance homegrown assembling and draw in unfamiliar venture, has additionally been helped by the development of computerized innovations, with the ascent of the advanced economy setting out new open doors for development and business.

India's rapid digitalization is enhancing citizens' access to services and opportunities, boosting efficiency, fostering transparency, and creating a positive economic ripple effect.

Cyber Security Threats:

"The cyber threat is one of the most serious economic and national security challenges we face as a nation." - President Barack Obama

1. Our cyberspace, or critical infrastructure, is protected by cyber security from attack, damage, misuse, and economic espionage:
   
   • The goal of cybersecurity is to safeguard our digital systems, networks, and devices from cyberattacks.
   • Cybersecurity is a broad field that includes many different techniques, technologies, and processes. In order for critical infrastructure to function effectively, such as electricity grids, financial systems, transportation networks, and other key services, it must be protected.
   • Cyber-attacks can have catastrophic effects, including service interruptions, the theft of private information, monetary losses, reputational damages, and even bodily harm to people. Hence, taking cybersecurity precautions is essential to preventing and reducing the effects of cyberattacks.
   • Cybersecurity experts work to defend against a variety of frequent attacks, including:
   • Malware: Malicious software, such as viruses, worms, and trojan horses, is used to disrupt or harm digital systems.
   • Phishing: Phishing is a sort of cyberattack that includes convincing people to divulge private information, including usernames and passwords, by assuming the identity of a reliable source.
   • Ransomware: Data on a device or network is encrypted by ransomware, a sort of software that demands money to decrypt the data.
   • Cybercriminals employ social engineering as a technique to trick people into disclosing private information or performing actions that endanger digital systems.
   
    
2. Throughout recent years, the quantity of digital interruptions and assaults has soar, uncovering private and business data, obstructing fundamental activities, and causing huge financial harm:
   
   Cyberattacks and intrusions have increased significantly over the past decade, affecting individuals, businesses, and critical infrastructure in increasing numbers. Cybercrime and economic espionage result in annual losses of up to $600 billion for the global economy, as stated in a report produced by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies[1].Additionally, the report reveals that the number of reported cyber incidents has increased from 200,000 in 2010 to 400,000 in 2017, pointing to a worldwide increase in the threat to cybersecurity.
   
   The rise in cyberattacks can be attributed to a number of factors, including the growing reliance on digital technologies, the development of new attack vectors like ransomware and social engineering, and the growing sophistication of cybercriminals. Furthermore, the developing number of gadgets associated with the web, for example, cell phones, tablets, and Web of Things (IoT) gadgets, has expanded the assault surface for digital crooks, making it simpler for them to send off assaults.
   
   While traditional businesses are utilizing e-platforms to expand their reach, new businesses that are solely based on new technologies like social, mobile, analytics, and cloud (SMAC) are expanding at a breakneck pace. Using web-based technology, the Web of Things (IoT), in which interconnected devices can monitor various aspects of personal and professional life, is rapidly becoming a reality:
   Individuals, businesses, and governments all need to take proactive steps to improve cybersecurity in response to the growing threat posed by cyberattacks. This includes putting in strong security measures like firewalls, encryption, and access control, keeping software and security patches up to date, and teaching users and employees about cybersecurity.

Latest Legal issues:
A significant cyberattack rendered the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi (AIIMS), the nation's leading medical school, inoperable on November 23, 2022:

The cyberattack that took place in November 2022 against AIIMS is a worrying incident that emphasizes the need for improved cyber security preparedness across systems and organizations. The majority of the hospital's servers and the hospital network, which is managed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), were affected by the attack, which caused significant disruptions in the hospital's operations.

The case was enlisted by the Knowledge Combination and Vital Tasks (IFSO) unit of the Delhi Police on November 25 as an instance of blackmail and digital psychological oppression. However, it was reported that AIIMS did not request cryptocurrency worth Rs 200 crores, as is typical of ransomware attacks.

This incident serves as a reminder that critical infrastructure like hospitals and healthcare systems can be seriously affected by cyberattacks. Cybercriminals can take advantage of system flaws to disrupt operations, steal sensitive information, and even demand ransom payments.

To improve their preparedness for cyber security, systems and organizations must take proactive measures. This includes conducting routine employee training and awareness programs, implementing multi-factor authentication, keeping software and systems up to date, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments.

The National Cyber Security Strategy 2020, which the Indian government has launched, aims to improve the nation's cyber security. It includes initiatives like setting up Cyber Forensic Labs in every state and establishing a National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

A cyberattack also occurred at Safdarjung Hospital, another prestigious facility, a few days later. It has also been the target of numerous cyberattacks on critical infrastructure assets in the past.

Some latest case laws and references on cyberspace:

1. Union of India v. K.A. Najeeb (2021): [2]
   In this case, the question of whether the government has the authority to halt internet access in certain areas during unrest or protests was at issue. The government must adhere to stringent procedural safeguards, and such measures must be temporary, according to the Supreme Court.
    
2. Amazon Seller Services Pvt. Ltd. v. Amway India Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. (2021): [3]
   The issue of trademark infringement in the context of e-commerce platforms was the focus of this case. The Delhi High Court ruled that third-party sellers can't sue e-commerce platforms like Amazon for trademark infringement as long as they take certain precautions to prevent it.
    
3. Sudhir Yadav v. State of Haryana (2021): [4]
   The problem of cyberstalking and harassment was the focus of this case. The Punjab and Haryana High Court held that offering disparaging and slanderous comments via web-based entertainment can comprise an offense under the Indian Corrective Code and the Data Innovation Act.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, cybercrime and cyberattacks are on the rise in India, raising concerns about cybersecurity. India's legal system is attempting to keep up with the rapid changes in cyberspace. However, there are still a lot of obstacles to overcome, such as a lack of public awareness, inadequate funding for law enforcement agencies, and the requirement for improved international cooperation.

However, India's cybersecurity needs to be improved further. In order to effectively address the new and emerging threats in cyberspace, the legal framework must be strengthened with up-to-date laws and regulations. In addition, law enforcement agencies require the resources and training they need to effectively combat cybercrime.

"The challenges of cybersecurity are a stark reminder of the need for policy makers, government agencies, and civil society to come together to ensure that the benefits of technology are enjoyed by all, without compromising on security and privacy," stated Supreme Court of India Justice DY Chandrachud. The lawful issues in the internet are mind boggling and require a multi-layered approach that includes joint effort between the public authority, industry, and common society.

"Privacy is not an option, and it shouldn't be the price we except for just getting on the internet." - Gary Kovacs

This quote emphasizes the significance of cyberspace privacy and the fact that it should not be compromised solely for the purpose of gaining internet access. It emphasizes the importance of strong privacy laws and policies to safeguard individuals from cyberattacks and data breaches. It is essential to ensure that our privacy rights are safeguarded online as more and more aspects of our personal lives become connected to the digital world. The quote also emphasizes that privacy is a fundamental right that should be available to everyone, not a luxury or a privilege.

References And Bibliography
References:

• https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/aiims-cyber-attack-national-security-subimal-bhattacharjee-8298134/
• https://www.civilsdaily.com/burning-issue-cyber-security-threats-to-india/
• AIIMS Delhi Hit by Major Cyber Attack: Manual Operations on as Servers Down for 8 Days," India Today, November 30, 2022.
• India's AIIMS Hospital Crippled by Cyber Attack," BBC News, November 24, 2022.
• AIIMS cyber attack: Delhi Police denies reports of Rs 200 crore ransom demand," India Today, November 29, 2022.
• All India Institute of Medical Sciences hit by major cyber-attack," The Hindu, November 26, 2022.
• National Cyber Security Strategy 2020," Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India.
• The White House. (2021, May 12). Executive Order on Improving the Nation's Cybersecurity. Retrieved from https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/05/12/executive-order-on-improving-the-nations-cybersecurity/
• https://www.scconline.com/Members/SearchResult.aspx

Bibliography:

1. Halder, S., & Jaishankar, K. (2011). Cybercrime and the Victimization of Women: Laws, Rights and Regulations. Hershey, PA: IGI Global.
2. Jaishankar, K. (Ed.). (2020). Global Cyber Security Education and Training: Knowledge, Practice, and Applications. Hershey, PA: IGI Global.
3. Wall, D., & Felson, M. (Eds.). (2020). The Handbook of Crime and Deviance. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

End-Notes:

1. CSIS, 2018
2. Union of India v. K.A. Najeeb, (2021) 3 SCC 713
3. Amway India Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. v. Pioneering Products, 2019 SCC OnLine Del 9089
4. Sudhir Kumar Atrey v. Union of India, (2022) 1 SCC 352

Written By: Adishree Sakhare, Maharashtra National Law University, Aurangabad
Email: [email protected]