Cyber laws or internet laws provide legal protection to individuals when they’re online. These laws are new in most states which is essential for users as we shall discuss in this article. Whether it’s an individual or a business, cyber laws are there to keep online users in the loop. They state the standard conduct or acceptable behavior when using any internet-accessible device.
Cybercrime categories
· Individual
This is the most common cybercrime category that involves harassment, defamation, identity theft, data breach against an individual.
· Property
Property cybercrime is the illegal transfer of data or sensitive information from financial institutions or organizations. It can involve either computer hacking or unauthorized access to clients’ digital information.
· Government
This particular crime falls under the cyber terrorism category. This is when individuals, organizations in or outside a country hack into government websites and illegally attempt to, or acquire sensitive information.
Types of cyber law
· Cyberstalking
Online stalking is the act of repeatedly making unwanted communication that makes an individual feel uneasy, threatened, or afraid. If found guilty, the accused risks being served with a restraining order against the victim, occasionally they can also face criminal charges.
· Copyright
This particular law is useful when it comes to creative work protection, for individuals or companies. The copyrights protection can include, blogs, books, movies, music, videos, or any other form of online publication.
· Data protection
We’re in the golden internet era where personal information is of main concern. Data protection laws regulate how much information is collected, the usage of that information, and the security mechanisms for data protection. Lastly, data protection laws protect individuals’ privacy when their personal information is transferred or used by a third party.
· Defamation
Defamation is similar to civil law. It usually applies when fake statements are made online against an individual or organization that tarnishes their reputation. Defamation falls under two categories namely liberal and slander. The former is when defamation is published in writing while the latter is when it’s in verbal form.
· Patents
This type of law essentially helps to protect an invention. The main purpose of patents is to help avoid duplication of original content on various online platforms. In other words, a patent is a form of intellectual property that grants exclusive rights to an inventor or gives assignees rights to use their invention within a certain timeframe.
· Fraud
This type of cyber-crime law is helpful against online-related fraud such as credit card or identity theft. Perpetrators of this crime can face imprisonment of two years or a level 4 fine under certain jurisdictions.
Benefits of cyber law
Cyber laws play a pivotal role when it comes to security and privacy concerns especially now that the internet is easily accessible in most parts of the globe. Below are some of the advantages of cyber laws.
- Protection against fraudsters or imposters
- Official certification of websites
- Safeguarding personal information or data
- Fines or arrest of cybercriminals
Conclusion
Cyber laws are effective at mitigating internet usage risks at the same time keeping those in violation of the policies in check. Nevertheless, it needs legal expertise to make an online cybercrime official. On the subject of attorneys, if you’re in need of a personal injury lawyer, a minor car accident lawyer in Michigan is recommended if you’re seeking justice.