Cybercrime refers to criminal activities carried out using computers, networks, and the internet. It encompasses various illegal actions, including hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. Cyber law, on the other hand, involves legal frameworks designed to regulate and address activities in the digital domain, providing consequences for cybercrimes.
When scholars mention that not all cybercrimes are necessarily illegal, they are highlighting scenarios where activities classified as cybercrimes may be lawful. For instance:
Ethical Hacking: Ethical hackers engage in authorized actions to identify and address security vulnerabilities, contributing to improved cybersecurity.
Penetration Testing: Legitimate cybersecurity professionals may conduct simulated cyberattacks with proper authorization to assess and enhance system security.
Security Research: Individuals or organizations may explore software or system vulnerabilities for research purposes, aiming to enhance overall cybersecurity.
In these cases, the legality of actions depends on factors such as intent, authorization, and adherence to ethical standards. Scholars emphasize the importance of distinguishing between malicious cybercrimes and legal, ethical activities conducted in the digital realm.