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3 months ago in International Law By Vipul

What are key issues in enforcing international rules against cybercrime?

As a legal researcher focused on digital governance, I see a glaring gap between the agreements signed by states and the reality on the ground. We have conventions like the Budapest Convention, but enforcement seems scattered and often ineffective. What, in your view, are the core issues is it jurisdictional conflict, lack of technical capacity, state-sponsored hacking, or simply the speed of technological change that make holding cybercriminals accountable across borders so difficult?

 

All Answers (2 Answers In All)

By Ruhi Malhotra Answered 2 months ago

Enforcing international rules against cybercrime is challenging due to several structural and legal issues. Key problems include conflicting national legal frameworks, which make harmonized enforcement difficult, and the complexity of attributing cyberattacks to specific state or non-state actors. Additionally, the absence of a universally accepted global treaty granting clear jurisdiction limits coordinated action. Concerns over national sovereignty further restrict cross-border data sharing and extradition, significantly weakening effective investigation and prosecution.

Replied 2 months ago

By Vipul

Thank you so much for your response.

By Shobha Answered 2 months ago

Another major issue is the rapid pace of technological change. Cybercrime methods evolve faster than laws and regulations, leaving gaps that criminals can exploit. Even when international frameworks exist, differences in enforcement capacity like cybersecurity expertise and investigative resources mean that some countries struggle to implement agreements effectively. This creates “weak links” that cybercriminals can target, making global enforcement uneven.

Replied 1 month ago

By Vipul

Thank you, that’s really helpful Shobha.

 

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