Procedural powers related to digital data acquisition in criminal investigations

Abstract

The advent of technology has changed society radically. The economy, education and health are now inconceivable without a heavy reliance on technology. These advances however have led to the creation of new kinds of crime and to the facilitation of traditional crimes. Policing authorities around the world are now facing new challenges in the ever developing Cyberworld that require well drafted laws which will empower authorities whilst still keeping them in check. Many of these laws still use outdated and inapplicable paradigms with the effect that policing authorities have either unfettered powers or are too restricted to be able to respond effectively to the new forms of crime that are emerging. This thesis aims to analyse the balance of effectiveness and privacy that these powers present and make some recommendations as to the way forward.