🧾 Electronic Transaction Rules, 2008
The Electronic Transaction Rules were introduced one year after the ETA to provide procedural details and guidance for the effective implementation of the Act.
📋 Purpose of the Rules:
- To define technical and administrative procedures for digital transactions.
- To explain how digital certificates and signatures are to be used and validated.
- To outline roles and responsibilities of regulatory bodies.
- To establish the office of Controller of Certifying Authority (CCA) for managing digital certificates.
🛠️ Key Provisions in the Rules:
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Digital Signature | Criteria for issuing, renewing, and revoking digital certificates. |
| Certifying Authorities | Rules for licensing, operation, and monitoring of certificate providers. |
| Security Measures | Requirements for protecting data integrity and user privacy in electronic communication. |
| Record Keeping | Organizations must maintain logs of electronic transactions. |
| Inspection and Audit | Regulatory bodies may inspect digital service providers to ensure compliance. |
🧠 Significance of ETA and Rules:
- Encourages digital transformation in both government and business sectors.
- Protects users from cyber threats by penalizing digital misconduct.
- Builds trust in online platforms, e-commerce, and digital payment systems.
- Supports legal proceedings by making digital evidence admissible in court.
⚠️ Limitations and Challenges:
- Many parts of the law are outdated compared to current technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain).
- Weak enforcement mechanisms and lack of cybercrime training among law enforcement.
- Public lack of awareness about digital rights and reporting procedures.
- The law does not clearly cover emerging threats like cyberbullying, social media scams, etc.
