Responsibilities of Concerned Institutions to Overcome Cybercrime
Abstract
Cybercrime has emerged as one of the most complex challenges confronting modern states, particularly in developing countries such as Pakistan, where rapid digitalization has not been matched with adequate institutional preparedness. The borderless nature of cyberspace, coupled with weak enforcement mechanisms and low digital literacy, has amplified the social, economic, and moral consequences of cybercrime. This study critically examines the responsibilities of concerned institutions in overcoming cybercrime, with specific reference to Pakistan’s legal, administrative, religious, and educational frameworks, while integrating Islamic ethical principles derived from the Quran and Sunnah. The article argues that cybercrime is not merely a technical or legal issue but a multidimensional problem requiring a coordinated institutional response grounded in moral accountability, legal enforcement, and social awareness. It analyzes the roles of government bodies, law enforcement agencies, regulatory authorities, the judiciary, religious institutions, and educational organizations in preventing, detecting, and responding to cyber offenses. Particular attention is given to Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 and (PECA) 2025 highlighting both its strengths and implementation challenges.From an Islamic perspective, the study emphasizes values such as trust (amanah), justice (adl), privacy (ḥurmah al-khuṣuṣiyyah), and accountability (muḥasabah), demonstrating their relevance to contemporary digital conduct. By synthesizing Islamic moral guidance with Pakistan’s institutional mechanisms, the article proposes an integrated framework for combating cybercrime effectively. The study concludes that sustainable control of cybercrime in Pakistan requires not only stronger laws but also ethically guided institutions capable of responding to emerging digital threats in a rapidly evolving technological environment.
Key words: The Holy Quran, the Books of Hadith and The Books of Fiqh.
