Cybercrime and the Admissibility of Digital Evidence in Criminal Proceedings: Legal Challenges and Safeguards

The rapid development of information and communication technologies has transformed criminal activity and created new challenges for criminal investigations and judicial proceedings. Digital evidence, including electronic communications, computer logs, mobile device data, cloud records, and blockchain transactions, has become increasingly important in establishing criminal liability. However, its admissibility raises complex legal and technical questions concerning authenticity, integrity, reliability, lawful acquisition, privacy, and the preservation of the chain of custody. This article examines the principal legal challenges associated with digital evidence in criminal proceedings and evaluates safeguards designed to protect the rights of defendants while ensuring effective criminal prosecution. Using doctrinal, comparative, and analytical methods, the study considers international legal instruments, digital forensic standards, and fair-trial principles. It argues that reliable digital evidence requires a transparent evidentiary process, effective judicial scrutiny, independent forensic examination, and meaningful opportunities for the defence to challenge prosecution evidence. The article concludes by proposing a comprehensive framework for improving the admissibility and evidentiary value of digital evidence.