Nusrat Tayba Mim:
The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ushered in significant innovation and convenience across multiple sectors. However, its unregulated misuse is increasingly contributing to a surge in cybercrimes, including misinformation, identity theft, and phishing attacks. Legal experts and analysts are now calling for immediate legislative reform in Bangladesh to address these emerging threats. Without a comprehensive framework to regulate AI-driven offences, the country risks falling behind in combating evolving digital dangers.
Quazi Mahfujul Hoque Supan, Associate Professor of the Law Department at Dhaka University, told The New Nation that the government has considerable scope to regulate the use of AI. He stressed the need for clear restrictions on both users and regulatory authorities to prevent abuse. “Every developed nation has enacted specific laws to curb AI misuse, which is playing a significant role in the rise of cybercrime,” he said. “Bangladesh urgently requires distinct and comprehensive legislation to effectively govern the use of AI technologies.”
Bangladesh urgently requires distinct and comprehensive legislation to effectively govern the use of AI technologies
Quazi Mahfujul Hoque Supan
Associate Professor, DU
A recent 2024 study identified social media and online account hacking as the most prevalent forms of cybercrime in Bangladesh, accounting for 21.65 per cent of reported incidents. Despite the widespread impact, only 12 per cent of victims pursued legal action, while a staggering 87.5 per cent reported receiving no tangible benefit from doing so.
The study further revealed that the majority of victims were educated individuals: 40.9 per cent had completed higher secondary education, 21.21 per cent held undergraduate degrees, 16.66 per cent had completed secondary education, and 12.87 per cent were below the secondary level. Alarmingly, emerging forms of cybercrime have doubled over the past year, now constituting 11.85 per cent of all reported cases.
Crime analysts highlighted that while AI continues to simplify daily tasks and transform sectors such as the economy, education, healthcare, and business, it is also being exploited by cybercriminals. Phishing attacks, dissemination of fake news, and identity theft are increasingly being powered by AI. “Deepfake technology, which can create highly realistic fake videos and audio clips, is now being used to spread misinformation and incite political instability,” experts noted. They stressed the importance of establishing a specialised cybercrime investigation unit equipped with advanced technological tools.
Legal professionals pointed to the European Union’s AI Act as a notable model. The legislation sets ethical and transparency standards for AI use, imposes substantial penalties for violations, and provides a robust legal framework. While other countries can adopt similar measures, they must be adapted to local contexts.
In Bangladesh, although AI adoption is on the rise, there is currently no specific legislation or policy to regulate its use. The existing Cyber Security Act (2023) does not adequately address AI-driven cybercrimes. For instance, the law lacks definitions or provisions for offences involving deepfakes or algorithmic manipulation, enabling perpetrators to exploit loopholes and avoid prosecution.
Experts emphasised that legal reform alone is not sufficient. Effective implementation and increased public awareness are equally critical. Raising awareness among citizens, technology users, and law enforcement personnel about the risks of AI misuse, along with providing appropriate training, is essential. “If the public can recognise deepfakes or fake news, a significant number of AI-powered crimes can be prevented,” they added.
