COMBATING CYBER-CRIMES IN INDIA: AN ANALYSIS OF EMERGING THREATS AND LEGAL RESPONSES

The rapid growth of digital technology and internet accessibility has transformed communication, commerce and governance in India. However, it has also led to a significant rise in cyber-crimes such as phishing, identity theft, ransomware attacks, cyber stalking, financial fraud and data breaches. This article examines the evolving nature of cyber-crimes in India and critically analyses the adequacy of the existing legal framework, including the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. It further discusses the challenges relating to investigation, digital evidence, jurisdiction and cross-border cyber offences, while suggesting legal and institutional reforms to strengthen India's cyber security framework. The article concludes that continuous legal modernisation and effective enforcement are essential to address emerging cyber threats while safeguarding constitutional rights in the digital era.