Legal Framework and Transition
Key Statutory Liabilities for Commercial Entities
Under Section 25 of the Digital Security Act (and corresponding provisions in the CSA), the transmission of offensive, false, or defamatory information via digital platforms carries significant criminal liability. For businesses, this extends to marketing content, user-generated comments on corporate pages, and internal data management.
| Offense Category | Relevant Section (DSA/CSA) | Nature of Liability |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Fraud | Section 22 | Non-bailable / Fines up to ৳5 Lac |
| Data Breach/Identity Theft | Section 26 | Cognizable / Fines up to ৳5 Lac |
| Cyber Terrorism/System Breach | Section 27 | Non-bailable / Life Imprisonment (Max) |
| Defamatory Publications | Section 29 | Bailable (under CSA) / Fines only |
Compliance Roadmap for Content Creators
- Content Verification: Ensure all published material complies with Section 21 (Spirit of Liberation War) and Section 28 (Religious Values) to avoid cognizable offenses.
- Data Privacy: Implement robust encryption for user data as mandated by the Information Technology (Use of Electronic Signature and Certificate) Rules 2010.
- Takedown Protocols: Establish internal mechanisms to respond to notices from the Digital Security Agency or the BTRC under Section 8 of the DSA/CSA.
- Corporate Liability: Note that under Section 47 of the Digital Security Act, if a company commits an offense, every owner, director, and officer may be held liable unless they prove the offense was committed without their knowledge.
Consult Barrister Liton Asaduzzaman Sarkar
Ensure your digital business is compliant with the latest Cyber Security Act mandates.
Schedule a Compliance AuditFrequently Asked Questions
Can a company be held criminally liable for a digital offense?
Yes. According to Section 47 of the Cyber Security Act 2023, if a company commits an offense, every person who was responsible for the conduct of the business at the time shall be deemed guilty unless they can prove the offense occurred without their knowledge or they exercised due diligence.
What are the penalties for digital defamation under the new Cyber Security Act?
Under the Cyber Security Act 2023, which replaces Section 29 of the DSA, the penalty for defamation has been shifted from imprisonment to a fine-only model, though the maximum fine can be significant, and civil litigation under the Tort Law remains an option for aggrieved parties.
Is unauthorized access to a computer system a bailable offense?
No. Under Section 18 of the Cyber Security Act 2023, illegal access to any critical information infrastructure is a non-bailable offense and can lead to imprisonment for a term up to 7 years.
◆ Related Statutory Guides & Practice Insights
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