Introduction<br /><br />The rapid technological development has sparked a revolution in all areas of life. However, it has also created new legal challenges, particularly with the rise of cybercrimes that threaten social, economic, and political security. These crimes involve unlawful acts committed through computer systems or the Internet, such as hacking, data theft, electronic fraud, and privacy violations. Thus, defining criminal liability and establishing effective legal frameworks has become essential.<br /><br />First: The Concept of Cybercrimes<br /><br />Cybercrimes are any acts criminalized by law that are committed using a computer or information network as a tool or a target. They are characterized by unique features such as their transnational nature, the difficulty of tracking offenders, and the speed and scope of the resulting harm.<br /><br />Second: Criminal Liability in Iraqi Legislation<br /><br />Iraqi law does not provide a precise definition of cybercrimes, but the legislator has addressed certain forms of them through scattered provisions. Specific legal efforts include:<br /> 1. The Draft Law on Information Crimes, which aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for dealing with criminal acts related to technology.<br /> 2. The Iraqi Penal Code No. 111 of 1969, which may apply to acts such as fraud or forgery when committed electronically.<br /><br />Nevertheless, Iraqi legislation still requires comprehensive reform to match the scale of technological challenges and international standards.<br /><br />Third: Relevant International Conventions<br /><br />The international community recognized early on the dangers of cybercrimes, leading to the adoption of several conventions, most notably:<br /> • The Budapest Convention (2001): Considered the most comprehensive international framework for combating cybercrimes, it aims to harmonize national laws and enhance judicial cooperation.<br /> • United Nations Conventions, which emphasize international collaboration in combating cybercrimes and protecting data.<br /><br />These conventions serve as key references for Iraqi lawmakers to develop a legal system aligned with global standards.<br /><br />Fourth: Practical Challenges<br /> • Difficulty in identifying cybercriminals due to the use of anonymity tools.<br /> • Limited technical capabilities of law enforcement agencies in addressing cross-border crimes.<br /> • Lack of public awareness regarding the dangers of cybercrimes and methods of prevention.<br /><br />Conclusion<br /><br />Cybercrimes represent one of the most serious contemporary challenges to legal systems, and they cannot be effectively addressed without advanced legislation and strong international cooperation. Therefore, developing Iraqi legislation, while drawing on international experiences and conventions, is a vital step toward strengthening legal security and protecting individuals and society from the risks of these crimes.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />"AL_mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq"<br/><br/><a href=https://uomus.edu.iq/Default.aspx target=_blank>al-mustaqbal University Website</a>