Vol. 5 No. 11 (2025): Berajah Journal
Open Access
Peer Reviewed

THE DEVELOPMENT OF CRIMINAL LAW IN ADDRESSING DIGITAL FRAUD AND CYBER OFFENSES

Authors

Iip Nurul Topani , Alan Yati

Published:

2025-12-31

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Abstract

The advancement of digital technology has facilitated economic activities, communication, and public services, yet it has simultaneously created new avenues for digital fraud and various forms of cybercrime. The cross-border and dynamic nature of technology-based crimes which exploit the anonymity and complexity of digital systems poses challenges for the evolution of criminal law. This study aims to analyze the development of criminal law in response to digital fraud and cyber offenses, specifically regarding the nature of these crimes, criminal liability, electronic evidence, and the need to align legal policies with technological advancements. The research employs a normative-juridical approach, analyzing relevant legislation, legal doctrines, and scholarly literature. The findings indicate that the evolution of digital crime necessitates a shift in criminal law from conventional approaches toward a legal framework that is more adaptive to the characteristics of technology. Strengthening regulations, clarifying the construction of criminal liability, optimizing the use of electronic evidence, enhancing the capacity of law enforcement officials, and fostering inter-agency and cross-border cooperation are crucial aspects of combating digital fraud and cyber offenses. Consequently, the development of criminal law should not focus solely on sanctioning perpetrators but also on establishing a law enforcement system capable of ensuring legal protection, certainty, and effectiveness in addressing the transformation of crime within the digital realm.

Keywords:

Criminal Law Digital Fraud Cyber Offenses Cybercrime Electronic Evidence Law Enforcement

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Author Biographies

Iip Nurul Topani, UIN Raden Intan Lampung

Author Origin : Indonesia

Alan Yati, UIN Raden Intan Lampung

Author Origin : Indonesia

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How to Cite

Iip Nurul Topani, & Alan Yati. (2025). THE DEVELOPMENT OF CRIMINAL LAW IN ADDRESSING DIGITAL FRAUD AND CYBER OFFENSES. Berajah Journal, 5(11), 445–458. https://doi.org/10.47353/bj.v5i11.753