AWARENESS OF DIGITAL EVIDENCE AND CYBER-LAWS AMONG STUDENTS: ANANALYTICAL STUDY

The increasing reliance on digital technologies has significantly transformed communication, education, and information exchange while simultaneously intensifying the risks associated with cybercrime and digital security. This study investigates students’ awareness of digital evidence and cyber laws, with particular emphasis on their understanding of legal frameworks, digital evidence, cybercrime reporting mechanisms, and cybersecurity practices. A descriptive cross-sectional research design employing a quantitative approach was adopted. Primary data were collected from 120 respondents using a structured questionnaire administered through Google forms. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques, including frequencies and percentages.The findings reveal that although a majority of respondents demonstrated general awareness of digital evidence and cyber laws, substantial deficiencies persist in their understanding of the Information Technology Act, 2000, digital evidence preservation, and official cybercrime reporting procedures. The Internet and social media emerged as the predominant sources of information, whereas formal educational institutions played a comparatively limited role in fostering legal and cybersecurity awareness. Furthermore, respondents strongly supported the integration of cyber law education into academic curricula and emphasized the need for practical training, awareness campaigns, and capacity building initiatives.