Defining Cyber Weapon in Context of Technology and Law

Abstract

This article describes how the interconnected world of today, or the cyber space so often called, is easily accessible through a wide array of devices and has an impact and reach beyond geo-political boundaries Owing to high levels of connectivity and the nature of E-governance activities today, the cyber space is rapidly becoming a potential global battlefield for cyber warfare among various state and non-state entities. An effective cyber weapon in this space is like an indicator of cyber power, its nature being offensive or defensive. Parameters of effectiveness and reliability range from the type of developer of the weapon, whether state or non-state to its longevity in time and technology and others like possibility of an economic implementation along with the scope of its usage. This article is aimed at analyzing existing definitions, opinions and notions about cyber weapons and defining the term cyber weapon from a techno-legal perspective, which could be universally acceptable and have characteristics of enforceability across all domains: civil, criminal & defense applications.