Globalised information: Can the law cope?

Abstract

Information is becoming an important asset of organisations, but there are concerns that the existing laws may be unable to provide the necessary protection against unauthorised acquisition, use or disclosure. As well, our legal systems are essentially state-based and may not be applicable when unauthorised activities occur across different jurisdictions. This article examines situations where legal protection of information has been available to organisations and individuals in different jurisdictions and explores the issue of whether the law can cope in a globalised society.