The Information Technology Act, 2000 (also known as the IT Act 2000 or the Cyberlaw of India) is an Indian law that governs electronic commerce and digital communication in India. It was enacted by the Indian Parliament in May 2000 and came into effect on October 17, 2000.

The main objective of the IT Act 2000 is to provide legal recognition to electronic transactions, facilitate e-governance, prevent computer-related offences, and provide for the establishment of a Cyber Appellate Tribunal to deal with cyber crimes. The Act also amends various other laws such as the Indian Penal Code, 1860, the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, the Banker’s Book Evidence Act, 1891, and the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

Some of the key provisions of the IT Act 2000 include:

1. Legal recognition to electronic records: Electronic records are given legal recognition and are considered as evidence in a court of law.
2. Digital signatures: The Act recognizes digital signatures as a valid mode of signing electronic documents.
3. Offences and penalties: The Act provides for punishments for various cyber crimes such as hacking, virus attacks, identity theft, cyber stalking, and phishing.
4. Liability of intermediaries: The Act provides for the liability of intermediaries such as internet service providers, web hosting companies, and social media platforms for any unlawful activity conducted through their platforms.
5. Establishment of Cyber Appellate Tribunal: The Act provides for the establishment of a Cyber Appellate Tribunal to deal with appeals against orders passed by Adjudicating Officers under the Act.

Overall, the IT Act 2000 provides a legal framework for electronic commerce and digital communication in India and aims to ensure a secure and trustworthy environment for online transactions.