The recent incident of a group of adult men virtually raping a 16-year-old UK girl has triggered a worldwide debate on the safety, and the legal implications of digital crimes.
The case is not an aberration. Nina Jane Patel, co-founder of Kabuni, aimed at making the metaverse safer for children, was sexually assaulted on the platform in 2021.
“Our lives are getting more tech-oriented, so we better be ready for any challenges that might come our way,” says Nishant Singh, Director of Forensic Investigations and Consultancy Services.
Experts pointed out that with India actively engaging with and adopting to digital technology, especially among its youth, learning from such international cases is vital.
India’s legal framework for cybercrimes is primarily governed by the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. However, experts felt existing laws may not be adequate.
Experts opined The IT Act, along with child and women protection laws, needs urgent revisions to stay relevant in the face of emerging digital challenges.