Under Indian law, cyber espionage or unauthorized data interception is typically addressed under various provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act), and other relevant statutes. These laws criminalize unauthorized access to computer systems, interception of electronic communications, and espionage-related activities. Here are the key provisions relevant to cyber espionage and unauthorized data interception: 1. Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act): Section 43: Unauthorized Access: This section penalizes unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data. It covers actions such as hacking, unauthorized copying or downloading of data, and disruption of computer systems. Section 66: Computer-Related Offenses: Section 66 of the IT Act addresses various computer-related offenses, including unauthorized access to computer systems, data theft, and acts that cause damage to computer systems or data. Section 66C: Identity Theft: This section deals with identity theft, making it an offense to fraudulently use the electronic signature, password, or any other unique identification feature of another person. Section 66D: Cheating by Personation using Computer Resource: It is an offense to cheat by personation (impersonation) through the use of a computer resource. Section 66E: Violation of Privacy: Section 66E deals with the offense of violation of privacy by capturing, publishing, or transmitting the image of a private area of any person without their consent. Section 72: Breach of Confidentiality: This section penalizes disclosure of information obtained while exercising powers under the IT Act, resulting in wrongful gain or loss to any person. 2. Indian Penal Code (IPC): Section 378: Theft: Section 378 of the IPC addresses theft, which includes the dishonest removal of movable property from the possession of another person without their consent. Section 379: Punishment for Theft: This section provides punishment for theft, which includes imprisonment and/or fine. Section 408: Criminal Breach of Trust: This section deals with criminal breach of trust by a public servant, banker, merchant, or agent, involving dishonest misappropriation of property entrusted to them. 3. Official Secrets Act, 1923: The Official Secrets Act, 1923, deals with espionage-related offenses, including unauthorized communication of information prejudicial to the security of the state. 4. Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002: This act addresses money laundering offenses, including those involving the proceeds of cyber espionage or unauthorized data interception. Conclusion: Under Indian law, cyber espionage or unauthorized data interception is addressed through provisions of the Information Technology Act, Indian Penal Code, Official Secrets Act, and other relevant statutes. These laws criminalize actions such as unauthorized access to computer systems, interception of electronic communications, theft of data, and espionage-related activities. Offenders can face imprisonment, fines, or other penalties depending on the nature and severity of the offense. The legal framework aims to protect against cyber threats, safeguard national security, and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of electronic data and communications.

Dear Client, Cyber espionage and unauthorized data interception are a serious violation of law in India, which is primarily prosecuted under the Information Technology Act 2000 (IT Act) and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS). 1. Cyber Espionage (Section 66F, IT Act): It is defined as the unauthorized access to or the unauthorized extraction of data from any computer resource, system, network, or government database, with the intention to act as a spy, harm the national security or obtain confidential information. Cyber espionage charge is treated as a cyber terrorism offense with a punishment of imprisonment up to life in prison. 2. Unauthorized Interception (Section 69 & 72, IT Act): Intercepting or monitoring an electronic communication without authentication from the duly authorized government is a violation of law. Intercepting or monitoring an electronic communication either without consent of the parties or outside of one's authority could lead to imprisonment up to 2 years and/or fine up to ₹1 lakh. 3. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) may also impose charges for data theft or illegal surveillance by augmenting charges of criminal breach of trust or privacy violations. 4. The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 expressly prohibits an unauthorized tapping of communication lines. I hope this answer helps. For any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you.