Information Technology Act 2000 Section 66B

Section 66B of the Information Technology Act, 2000, deals with the offence of dishonestly receiving stolen computer resources or communication devices. It applies when a person knowingly receives or retains stolen digital equipment or data, which has been obtained through illegal means such as hacking or theft. This section is crucial in combating cybercrime by targeting those who facilitate the circulation of stolen digital goods.

In today's digital world, where computer systems and communication devices are integral to personal and business activities, Section 66B helps protect the integrity of digital assets. It impacts users, businesses, and law enforcement by providing a legal framework to prosecute those who handle stolen digital property, thereby discouraging cyber theft and promoting cybersecurity.

Information Technology Act Section 66B – Exact Provision

This section criminalizes the act of knowingly receiving or keeping stolen computer resources or communication devices. The punishment includes imprisonment, fine, or both, emphasizing the seriousness of handling stolen digital property.

• Targets individuals who receive stolen digital equipment or data.

• Requires knowledge or reason to believe the property is stolen.

• Prescribes imprisonment up to three years or fine up to one lakh rupees.

• Aims to deter circulation of stolen digital assets.

• Supports cybersecurity and digital property protection.

Explanation of Information Technology Act Section 66B

Section 66B focuses on the dishonest reception of stolen computer resources or communication devices.

• The section states punishment for receiving or retaining stolen digital property knowingly.

• Applies to individuals, intermediaries, and companies handling stolen computer resources.

• Triggered when a person obtains stolen digital equipment or data with knowledge or suspicion of its origin.

• Legal criteria include proof of dishonest reception and knowledge of theft.

• Allows prosecution of those facilitating cyber theft indirectly.

• Prohibits possession or retention of stolen computer resources or devices.

Purpose and Rationale of IT Act Section 66B

The section aims to strengthen cybersecurity by penalizing those who receive stolen digital assets. It helps prevent the spread and use of illegally obtained computer resources, protecting users and businesses from cyber theft.

• Protects users and businesses from stolen digital property circulation.

• Prevents facilitation of cybercrime through handling stolen resources.

• Ensures accountability in digital asset transactions.

• Supports law enforcement in curbing cyber theft.

When IT Act Section 66B Applies

This section applies when stolen computer resources or communication devices are received or retained dishonestly. It can be invoked by law enforcement upon evidence of possession with knowledge of theft.

• Applies when stolen digital property is received or kept.

• Law enforcement or affected parties can invoke the section.

• Requires evidence of knowledge or reason to believe property is stolen.

• Relevant to digital devices, data storage, and communication equipment.

• Exceptions may include bona fide purchasers without knowledge of theft.

Legal Effect of IT Act Section 66B

Section 66B creates criminal liability for receiving stolen computer resources. It restricts rights to possess stolen digital property and imposes penalties including imprisonment and fines. The section complements IPC provisions on theft and receiving stolen goods, specifically tailored for digital assets.

• Creates criminal offence for dishonest reception of stolen digital property.

• Penalties include imprisonment up to three years and fines up to one lakh rupees.

• Impacts individuals and companies handling stolen computer resources.

• Works alongside IPC laws on theft and possession of stolen goods.

Nature of Offence or Liability under IT Act Section 66B

Section 66B imposes criminal liability for receiving stolen computer resources. The offence is cognizable and non-bailable, reflecting its seriousness. Arrest can be made without a warrant if the offence is committed.

• Criminal offence with cognizable status.

• Non-bailable due to nature of cybercrime.

• Arrest without warrant permitted.

• Liability extends to individuals and entities knowingly receiving stolen digital goods.

Stage of Proceedings Where IT Act Section 66B Applies

The section applies throughout the criminal justice process, from investigation to appeal. Digital evidence such as device logs and transaction records are crucial.

• Investigation involves collecting digital evidence and device examination.

• Complaint filing by affected parties or police.

• Trial conducted in a competent court.

• Appeal possible against conviction or acquittal.

Penalties and Consequences under IT Act Section 66B

Penalties include imprisonment up to three years, fines up to one lakh rupees, or both. Companies and intermediaries may face additional liabilities if involved. Compensation to victims may be awarded.

• Imprisonment up to three years.

• Fine up to one lakh rupees.

• Corporate and intermediary liability possible.

• Victim compensation may be ordered.

Example of IT Act Section 66B in Practical Use

X purchases a laptop from an online seller at a suspiciously low price. Later, it is discovered that the laptop was stolen through hacking. X knew or had reason to believe it was stolen but retained it. Under Section 66B, X can be prosecuted for dishonestly receiving stolen computer resources.

• Shows liability for knowingly receiving stolen digital devices.

• Emphasizes importance of due diligence in digital asset transactions.

Historical Background of IT Act Section 66B

The IT Act was introduced in 2000 to regulate electronic commerce and combat cybercrime. Section 66B was added to address the growing issue of stolen digital assets. The 2008 Amendment strengthened provisions against cyber offences, reflecting evolving digital threats.

• IT Act 2000 introduced for e-commerce and cybercrime regulation.

• Section 66B targets stolen digital property reception.

• 2008 Amendment enhanced cyber offence penalties.

Modern Relevance of IT Act Section 66B

With increasing cyber theft and data breaches in 2026, Section 66B remains vital. It supports digital evidence handling, online safety, and enforcement against cybercriminals. The rise of fintech and digital identity systems makes protecting digital assets crucial.

• Supports digital evidence admissibility.

• Enhances online safety and cybersecurity.

• Addresses enforcement challenges in cybercrime.

Related Sections

• IT Act Section 43 – Penalty for unauthorised access and data theft.

• IT Act Section 66 – Computer-related offences.

• IT Act Section 66C – Identity theft and phishing.

• IPC Section 378 – Theft, relevant for stolen goods.

• Evidence Act Section 65B – Admissibility of electronic evidence.

• CrPC Section 91 – Summons for digital records or documents.

Case References under IT Act Section 66B

1. State of Maharashtra v. Praful Desai (2003, AIR SC 777)

   – Emphasized importance of knowledge in receiving stolen property under cyber laws.

2. No landmark case directly interprets this section as of 2026.

Key Facts Summary for IT Act Section 66B

• Section: 66B

• Title: Receiving Stolen Computer Resources

• Category: Cybercrime, Digital Property Offence

• Applies To: Individuals, intermediaries, companies

• Stage: Investigation, trial, appeal

• Legal Effect: Criminal liability for receiving stolen digital assets

• Penalties: Imprisonment up to 3 years, fine up to ₹1 lakh

Conclusion on IT Act Section 66B

Section 66B of the IT Act, 2000, plays a critical role in combating cybercrime by penalizing the dishonest reception of stolen computer resources and communication devices. It strengthens the legal framework protecting digital assets, deterring individuals and entities from facilitating cyber theft.

As digital technology becomes more embedded in daily life and business, Section 66B ensures accountability and supports law enforcement in addressing cyber offences effectively. Its provisions help maintain trust in digital transactions and safeguard the integrity of India's digital ecosystem.

FAQs on IT Act Section 66B

What does Section 66B of the IT Act cover?

Section 66B punishes anyone who dishonestly receives or retains stolen computer resources or communication devices, knowing or having reason to believe they are stolen.

Who can be held liable under Section 66B?

Individuals, intermediaries, or companies who knowingly receive or keep stolen digital equipment or data can be held liable under this section.

What is the punishment under Section 66B?

The punishment includes imprisonment up to three years, a fine up to one lakh rupees, or both, depending on the case circumstances.

Does Section 66B require proof of knowledge?

Yes, the prosecution must prove that the accused knew or had reason to believe the computer resource or device was stolen.

How does Section 66B support cybersecurity?

By penalizing the reception of stolen digital assets, Section 66B discourages cyber theft and helps maintain the integrity of digital transactions and property.