Internet is a huge space which any single Policing authority would find it impossible to monitor. Even though  software such as Carnivore can be invoked in respect of specific crime situations, it's use for regular monitoring is limited. Just as the "Net Nannies" can be ineffective in certain cases, Carnivores can also throw up too much junk for the regulators to monitor except in case of specific surveillance missions. There is therefore a need to think about how to use the private citizens (Netizens) for monitoring Cyber crimes.

Secondly, in India, where, according to  the ITA-2000 a common man has to report and pursue Cyber Crimes only with the regular Police force and Judicial system, it is going to be impossible to collect evidence that can sustain in a court of law in respect of any Cyber crime without an elaborate investigation before the filing of a case. It is difficult to expect that the Police force would be able to conduct investigations in all cases to the satisfaction of the complainant. 

Thirdly, there may be  personally sensitive cases where there complainant is not comfortable with the official investigating agencies being involved.

In view of the above reasons, it is felt that "Private Cyber Investigating Agencies" may soon be required on the Cyber Space along with "Private Cyber Detectives". Such experts would also be required to support the  work of CERT s if managed by private agencies.

There have been many enquiries at naavi.org  from people interested in becoming Cyber Cops or forming Cyber Armies. It has already been clarified that legally, there can be no "Private Cyber Cop Activity" let alone a "Cyber Soldier Activity" since any act of surveillance could become "Hacking" or "Cyber Stalking" and may be illegal. 

It is however time to draw the attention of the authorities that just as there are "Private Detective Agencies" in the real world, there will be necessity to allow "Virtual Private Detective Agencies". Considering the enormous private talents available, it would be unwise not to channelise the available resources for public cause. If this talent is not given a positive expression channel, they may be recruited by "Virtual Underworlds" to run anti-social activities.

Perhaps it is necessary for the Indian Government to develop a policy for "Private Detective License" to be issued upon some scrutiny. The Police authorities should also develop a "Netizen Forum" in each city to assist them on specific assignments or to act as "Informers" to Prevent and/or Investigate Cyber Crimes. Similarly the policy for licensing private business houses to become "Virtual Detective Agencies" should also be formed.

The development of a policy for "Private Cyber Policing"  is a necessity because of the vastness of the Cyber space and the need for high technology skills. More importantly, It may also be a step towards  "Privatisation of law Enforcement".
 

Naavi
March 14, 2001

Do readers have a views on this? or suggestions on what such a policy should contain?. If so, Your views can be sent here