Today, how we interact, run a business, and obtain information has been completely transformed by information technologies law, which has also become an essential component of modern life. Since technology continues to shape all parts of our lives, understanding IT law is very significant. That is why, in this article, we covered all the necessary information for you.
The Historical Development of Information Technology (IT) Law in Turkey
The history of IT law in Turkey does not date back very far. It started in the late 1980s with limited regulation. Later 2008, a telecommunication law was enacted for emerging internet services. In this early digital era, Turkey presented the Law on the Protection of Personal Data in 2010 to protect personal data and information. With increased Internet use, e-commerce emerged, and Turkey introduced e-commerce regulations in 2015. Since then, Turkey has continued to strengthen its IT law, even today.
The Core of Information Technologies Law in Turkey
The core information technologies law in Turkey involves several frameworks and components like data protection, electronic commerce, and cybercrime. These essential and core components are explained in more detail below.
- The basis of data protection in Turkey is the Personal Data Protection Law No. 6698, which also complies with European Union data protection requirements. The Data Protection Authority (KVKK) was created under the law to enforce data protection laws, handle data breach notifications, and evaluate compliance with data protection laws.
- The Electronic Commerce Law No. 6563 of Turkey establishes the rules and regulations for electronic transactions, contracts, and signatures. It sets policies for e-commerce consumer protection, electronic advertising, and online service providers.
- The Cybercrime Law No. 5651 and the Law on the Regulation of Publications on the Internet and Suppression of Crimes Committed using Such Publication No. 5651 are two different laws in Turkey that deal with cybercrimes. These laws give legal authority for policing internet content, define specific cybercrimes, and penalize those who violate them.
What Does Information Technology Law in Turkey Cover?
Information technology, digital technologies, and the Internet are governed by a wide range of legal rules and provisions governed by information technologies law in Turkey. This IT law regulates numerous technology, data, and electronic communications aspects. It covers online content control, telecommunications regulation, cybercrimes, and data protection and privacy. By covering these areas, the information technologies law in Turkey aims to secure information technology while protecting the rights and interests of people and organizations in this digital age.
What Are The Cyber Crimes?
Criminal actions that use computers, networks, or other forms of digital technology as tools or targets are known as cybercrimes. One of the core components of information technologies law, cybercrimes aim to gather personal data of users, make any disturbing statements in a digital world, and introduce a virus and harm the system. Some common types of cybercrimes are listed below.
- Phishing is when a target is contacted through email, phone call, or text message by someone posing as a reputable organization to trick people into disclosing sensitive information, including passwords, credit cards, and personal information.
- Malware and Ransomware are the types of malicious software, ransomware, prevents users from accessing their system by locking the screen of systems or encrypting the files of users until they pay the ransom fee.
- Identity Theft is a type of cybercrime in which someone steals or improperly uses personal information without their consent. The stolen data is generally used for financial gain or to engage in various fraudulent activities.
If you are a victim of cybercrime in Turkey, you should consult a Turkish lawyer firm to get legal assistance. An Istanbul law firm, our team in Istanbul Lawyer Firm provides full legal consultancy.
FAQ About Information Technologies Law in Turkey
With the Internet entering our lives, the concept of cybercrime has become one of the main aspects of our lives, too. However, there are still some points people need to learn and are curious about. Within the scope of information technologies law in Turkey, let’s take a look at some FAQs related to this topic.
Suppose you want to learn more about information technologies law in Turkey and get professional help for your legal cases related to this field. In that case, you can consult our Turkish law firm, Istanbul Lawyer Firm. With our skilled and experienced attorneys in the information technologies law field, we are ready to help you. Besides, we provide consultancy with our English-speaking lawyers in Turkey for those who want to get legal assistance in English.
How Long Do Cybercrime Cases Take?
The duration of cybercrime cases in Turkey can change depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the legal processes involved.
Each stage of a cybercrime case involves investigation, filing documentation, or trial. These steps can affect the overall period of the case. Besides, complex issues generally require more time for research and legal proceedings.
Which Court Should You Apply Incase of IT Laws?
Information technologies law in Turkey covers various topics, from data protection and cybersecurity to e-commerce. Thus, the appropriate court to apply to solve different cases related to information technologies law may vary. For data security, the Data Protection Authority (KVKK) is responsible for dealing with data protection issues while for disputes related to electronic commerce, authorities like the Turkish Consumer Protection Authority assist in this case.
Where to Report Cyber Crimes?
In the case of cybercrime, there are some organizations and authorities that people can contact to report it in Turkey. Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BYK) is a responsible organization related to information technologies.
The General Directorate of Security Cybercrime Department is responsible for fighting against cybercrimes in Turkey. Contacting the Cybercrime Department is recommended to report cybercrimes in Turkey, like online fraud, identity theft, and cyberbullying.
Are Cyber Crimes Subject to Reconciliation?
In Turkey, cybercrimes are usually subject to penalties within the information technologies law. However, in some cases, they can also be subject to reconciliations. For instance, the parties involved in online harassment or cyberbullying may agree to a resolution or reconciliation outside of the criminal legal system in some cases.
