Criminal law in Pakistan is primarily governed by the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). The legal system follows the common law tradition, where court judgments (precedents) play an important role in shaping the law. The PPC outlines various criminal offenses, including theft, murder, fraud, and cybercrime, while the CrPC governs the procedures for criminal trials and investigations.
For businesses, especially those operating online or handling sensitive information, awareness of cybercrime laws has become increasingly important. The rise of cyber-attacks, fraud, and identity theft has prompted the government to strengthen its stance on digital offenses. For example, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 criminalizes offenses like hacking, unauthorized access to data, and online harassment, with hefty fines and imprisonment for offenders. Organizations must take necessary precautions, such as data encryption and cyber-security protocols, to avoid falling victim to cybercrime.
Moreover, individuals should be aware of the protections offered under criminal law, especially in cases involving personal safety, fraud, and defamation. In an era where social media plays a dominant role in communication, it’s important to know your rights when dealing with online defamation, hate speech, and privacy concerns.
Add a Comment