Legal Responses to Cybercrime: Challenges for National and International Criminal Justice Systems

Abstract Book of the 10th World Conference on Research in Social Sciences

Year: 2026

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Legal Responses to Cybercrime: Challenges for National and International Criminal Justice Systems

Dr. Ștefănoaia Mihai

ABSTRACT:

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has transformed modern societies, creating new opportunities for communication, commerce, and information exchange. At the same time, it has facilitated the emergence and proliferation of cybercrime, which poses significant challenges to national and international criminal justice systems. Cyber offenses such as unauthorized access to computer systems, identity theft, online fraud, ransomware attacks, and the dissemination of malicious software increasingly transcend national borders, complicating the detection, investigation, and prosecution of offenders. Traditional criminal law frameworks often struggle to keep pace with the evolving nature of cyber threats, particularly in relation to jurisdictional issues, digital evidence, and international cooperation.
This article examines the legal responses to cybercrime from a criminal law perspective, focusing on the effectiveness of existing national and international mechanisms designed to prevent and combat cyber offenses. The study analyzes the principal legal challenges faced by criminal justice authorities, including the collection and admissibility of electronic evidence, the attribution of criminal responsibility in cyberspace, and the coordination of cross-border investigations. Particular attention is paid to the role of international legal instruments and cooperative frameworks in addressing the transnational character of cybercrime.
The purpose of this article is to evaluate the adequacy of current criminal law responses to cybercrime and to identify areas where legislative and institutional reforms may enhance the effectiveness of criminal justice systems. By examining contemporary legal developments and enforcement practices, the article contributes to the ongoing discussion regarding the adaptation of criminal law to the realities of the digital age and the strengthening of international cooperation against cybercriminal activities.

Keywords: Cybercrime; Criminal Law; Criminal Justice Systems; Digital Evidence; International Cooperation; Cyber Offenses; Transnational Crime