AN ANALYSIS OF DATA PRIVACY AND PROTECTION LAWS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Revolutionized use of mobile phones, computers, internet and transformation of data from hard to soft form has increased the risks of data vulnerability. Cyber-crimes have proved to be the byproduct of digitalization. Effective cyber-legislation is the only means to monitor, control and prevent these crimes which are being committed by using modern information technologies. Various studies have shown that cyber-crimes are increasing in Pakistan with every passing year due to multiple reasons ranging from insufficient legislation regarding data privacy and protection to lack of cooperation with international law enforcement agencies. This paper examines the most frequently committed cybercrimes in Pakistan, analyzes the existing relevant laws with respect to privacy in general and online data privacy and protection more specifically in order to point out the major challenges in the implementation mechanism and makes a few suggestions to ensure the privacy and protection of cyberspace users in Pakistan.