THE ROLE OF CYBERSECURITY IN THE INFORMATION AGE. CHALLENGES OF THE INTERNET AND SOCIAL MEDIA

The 21st century is known as the era of information technology. With the rapid growth of the internet, new opportunities for communication, education, and commerce have emerged, transforming all aspects of human life. However, alongside its advantages, the internet has introduced several social and legal challenges, such as addiction, misinformation, and cybercrime. This article analyzes the cultural and legal implications of internet use, the rise of cybercrime, and the growing threat of cyberterrorism. Furthermore, it explores preventive cybersecurity measures and the responsibilities of state authorities in combating cyberthreats in Uzbekistan.