Information Technology Act 2000 Section 66
IT Act Section 66 covers computer-related offences including hacking, data theft, and fraudulent digital acts under Indian cyber law.
Information Technology Act Section 66 addresses computer-related offences involving dishonest or fraudulent acts using computers or digital devices. It criminalises activities like hacking, data theft, and manipulation of computer systems that cause wrongful loss or gain. This section is crucial in combating cybercrime in India.
In today's digital age, where online transactions and data exchanges are common, Section 66 safeguards users, businesses, and law enforcement agencies by defining punishable cyber offences. It helps maintain trust in electronic communications and digital infrastructure.
Information Technology Act Section 66 – Exact Provision
This section imposes penalties for dishonest or fraudulent computer-related acts as described in Section 43. It includes hacking, data theft, and other cyber offences causing wrongful loss or damage. The law empowers authorities to penalise offenders with imprisonment, fines, or both.
Targets dishonest or fraudulent computer acts.
Refers to offences under Section 43.
Penalties include imprisonment up to three years.
Fines can extend up to five lakh rupees.
Supports prosecution of cybercriminals.
Explanation of Information Technology Act Section 66
Section 66 defines criminal liability for dishonest or fraudulent computer acts causing harm or loss.
It states punishment for acts mentioned in Section 43 done dishonestly or fraudulently.
Applies to any person using computers or digital devices.
Includes hackers, cybercriminals, and fraudsters.
Triggered when wrongful loss or damage occurs via computer systems.
Allows imprisonment, fines, or both as punishment.
Prohibits hacking, data theft, and manipulation.
Purpose and Rationale of IT Act Section 66
The section aims to protect digital systems and users from dishonest and fraudulent cyber activities. It deters cybercrimes by imposing strict penalties and ensures secure electronic transactions and data integrity.
Protects users in the digital ecosystem.
Prevents cybercrimes like hacking and fraud.
Ensures secure electronic transactions.
Regulates online behaviour to maintain trust.
When IT Act Section 66 Applies
This section applies when a dishonest or fraudulent act involving a computer causes wrongful loss or damage. It can be invoked by affected individuals, companies, or law enforcement agencies.
When cyber offences under Section 43 occur dishonestly or fraudulently.
Victims or authorities can invoke the section.
Requires evidence of wrongful loss or damage.
Must involve computer, network, or digital device.
Exceptions include acts done without dishonest intent.
Legal Effect of IT Act Section 66
Section 66 creates criminal liability for dishonest or fraudulent computer-related offences. It restricts unlawful digital acts and empowers courts to impose imprisonment or fines. It complements Indian Penal Code provisions on cheating and forgery by addressing cyber-specific crimes.
Creates criminal liability for cyber offences.
Penalties include imprisonment and fines.
Impacts individuals, companies, and platforms.
Supports IPC provisions like cheating and forgery.
Nature of Offence or Liability under IT Act Section 66
The offence under Section 66 is criminal and cognizable. Police can investigate without prior court approval. Arrest may be made without warrant if necessary. The section ensures strict legal compliance against cyber fraud and hacking.
Criminal liability for dishonest computer acts.
Cognizable offence allowing police investigation.
Arrest without warrant permitted.
Supports regulatory compliance in cyber law enforcement.
Stage of Proceedings Where IT Act Section 66 Applies
Section 66 applies throughout the criminal justice process, from investigation to appeal. Digital evidence such as logs and metadata is crucial. Complaints can be filed by victims or authorities, followed by trial and appellate procedures.
Investigation of cyber offences using digital evidence.
Collection of computer logs, metadata, and records.
Filing of complaint by affected parties.
Trial in appropriate court.
Appeal against conviction or acquittal.
Penalties and Consequences under IT Act Section 66
Violations attract imprisonment up to three years, fines up to five lakh rupees, or both. Corporate entities may be held liable for offences committed by employees. Intermediaries can face penalties if complicit. Compensation to victims may also be ordered.
Imprisonment up to three years.
Fine up to five lakh rupees.
Corporate liability for offences by employees.
Intermediary liability if involved.
Possible compensation to victims.
Example of IT Act Section 66 in Practical Use
X, a software engineer, hacks into a company’s database to steal confidential data for personal gain. Upon detection, the company files a complaint under Section 66. Authorities investigate using digital logs and metadata. X is prosecuted, resulting in imprisonment and fine under this section.
Demonstrates application against hacking and data theft.
Highlights importance of digital evidence in prosecution.
Historical Background of IT Act Section 66
The IT Act 2000 was enacted to regulate electronic commerce, digital signatures, and cybercrime. Section 66 was introduced to criminalise dishonest computer acts. The IT Amendment Act 2008 expanded cyber offence definitions. Judicial interpretation has evolved to address new cyber threats.
Enacted to regulate e-commerce and cybercrime.
Amended in 2008 to broaden offences.
Judicial evolution to tackle emerging cyber threats.
Modern Relevance of IT Act Section 66
In 2026, cybersecurity remains critical with rising cyberattacks. Section 66 protects data integrity and combats online fraud. It supports fintech, digital identity, and social media safety. Enforcement faces challenges due to technology advances and jurisdictional issues.
Supports digital evidence admissibility.
Enhances online safety and trust.
Addresses enforcement challenges in cybercrime.
Related Sections
IT Act Section 43 – Penalty for unauthorised access and data theft.
IT Act Section 66A – Punishment for sending offensive messages (repealed but historically relevant).
IT Act Section 67 – Publishing obscene material online.
IPC Section 420 – Cheating, relevant for online fraud.
Evidence Act Section 65B – Admissibility of electronic evidence.
CrPC Section 91 – Summons for digital records or documents.
Case References under IT Act Section 66
- Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015, AIR 2015 SC 1523)
– Affirmed importance of safeguarding free speech while addressing cyber offences.
- State of Tamil Nadu v. Suhas Katti (2004, 118 DLT 294)
– Applied Section 66 for online defamation and cyber harassment.
- R. Rajeshwari v. State of Tamil Nadu (2018, Mad HC)
– Demonstrated use of Section 66 in prosecuting hacking offences.
Key Facts Summary for IT Act Section 66
Section: 66
Title: Computer Offences
Category: Cybercrime
Applies To: Any person using computer or digital device
Stage: Investigation, trial, appeal
Legal Effect: Criminal liability for dishonest or fraudulent computer acts
Penalties: Imprisonment up to 3 years, fine up to 5 lakh rupees, or both
Conclusion on IT Act Section 66
Section 66 of the Information Technology Act 2000 plays a vital role in India's cyber law framework by criminalising dishonest and fraudulent acts involving computers. It protects users and organisations from cyber threats like hacking and data theft, thereby fostering trust in the digital ecosystem.
With evolving technology, Section 66 remains relevant to address new cybercrimes. Its provisions empower law enforcement to investigate and prosecute offenders effectively. Continued awareness and enforcement are essential to safeguard digital transactions and information security in India.
FAQs on IT Act Section 66
What offences are covered under Section 66?
Section 66 covers dishonest or fraudulent acts involving computers, such as hacking, data theft, and manipulation causing wrongful loss or gain.
Who can be prosecuted under Section 66?
Any person who dishonestly or fraudulently commits offences using a computer or digital device can be prosecuted under Section 66.
What are the penalties under Section 66?
Penalties include imprisonment up to three years, fines up to five lakh rupees, or both, depending on the offence's severity.
Is Section 66 a cognizable offence?
Yes, offences under Section 66 are cognizable, allowing police to investigate without prior court approval.
How does Section 66 relate to Section 43?
Section 66 imposes punishment for offences described in Section 43 when done dishonestly or fraudulently, providing criminal liability.