Legal Liability for Cybercrimes and Its Impact on Protecting the Digital Business Environment: A Comparative Study

Abstract

This research addresses the issue of legal responsibility for cybercrimes and mechanisms for protecting the digital business environment, in light of the accelerating shift towards digitalization and the increasing reliance of economic and commercial activities on digital means and technologies. It aims to clarify the concept of cybercrimes and their characteristics, and to define the legal basis for the resulting responsibility. The research examines the responsibility of natural persons, legal entities, managers, and digital service providers, in addition to civil, disciplinary, and regulatory liability. The research employs a descriptive-analytical approach and a comparative methodology, analyzing the Mauritanian legal framework and drawing upon comparative legislation. It focuses on the effectiveness of legal rules in protecting the digital business environment. The research concludes that Mauritanian legislation has made significant strides in regulating the digital sphere and combating cybercrimes. However, the legal system still faces some challenges, most notably the fragmentation of texts, the rapid evolution of criminal patterns, the need for further regulation of the responsibility of legal entities and digital service providers, and the rules for reporting incidents and protecting commercial data. The research concludes that it is necessary to update legislation periodically, establish a comprehensive legal framework, strengthen the responsibility of companies and service providers, and develop prevention and security mechanisms. Cybersecurity and international cooperation, leading to more effective and stable protection of the digital business environment.