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Cyber Law, AI & Digital Rights

Deepfakes, online privacy, UPI scams, and data protection.

How do I take action against online defamation or cyber libel in India?

Cyber defamation is actionable under Section 356 BNS, 2023 (criminal defamation) and tort law (civil defamation). File cybercrime complaint, issue takedown notice under IT Rules 2021, send legal notice, and pursue civil damages or criminal proceedings. Average compensation ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹50 lakh+.
Reference: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (Section 356); Information Technology Act, 2000; IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021; Shreya Singhal v. Union of India, (2015) 5 SCC 1

My social media or email account was hacked — what should I do legally?

Act within hours: report to platform via emergency channels, secure remaining accounts, file complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930, register FIR under Sections 66/66C/66D IT Act and Sections 318/319 BNS, freeze financial accounts, and engage cyber lawyer. Speed determines recovery success.
Reference: Information Technology Act, 2000 (Sections 43, 66, 66C, 66D); Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023; CERT-In Directions, April 2022

Is a WhatsApp group admin legally liable for members' posts in India?

Generally NO, unless admin actively participates, encourages, fails to act after notice, or has actual knowledge of illegal content. Multiple High Courts (Madras, Bombay, Kerala, Allahabad) have held admins NOT vicariously liable absent knowledge or contribution. Best practice: clear rules, prompt action on flagged content, exit groups with illegal activity.
Reference: Information Technology Act, 2000 (Section 79); IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021; Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023; R. Rajendran v. Inspector of Police, Madras HC 2018; Kishor Tarone v. State of Maharashtra, Bombay HC 2018