With computer technology increasing rapidly everyday, there are concerns about the need to develop the law in order to take full advantage of technological improvements, and also to ensure that states can respond to computer crime and related criminal law.
Part 1 considers the legislative framework necessary for effective e-commerce, in particular considering how best to implement the UNCITRAL Model Law produced by the United Nations, and related issues such as consumer protection, privacy, dispute resolution and general evidence provisions.
Part 2 examines the specific criminal law issues relating to information technology, with particular regard to the draft Council of Europe Convention on Cyber-crime. The report reviews the substantive offences necessary to combat computer and computer-related criminal activity and gives detailed consideration to procedural issues such as search and seizure powers, production and preservation orders and the interception of electronic communications.
Consideration is also given to international co-operation relating to computer crime and other related issues.