Transformation of the Concept of “Property” in Iranian and Japanese Criminal Law and Its Impact on the Protection of Digital Assets

Abstract

This study aims to comparatively examine the transformation of the concept of “property” in Iranian and Japanese criminal law and to analyze its impact on the criminal-law protection of digital assets in the metaverse. The principal research question is: What differences exist between the Iranian and Japanese legal systems in their understanding of the concept of “property,” and how do these differences affect the manner in which digital assets in the metaverse are protected under criminal law? The findings indicate that, in Japan, there is a more pronounced tendency to recognize digital assets as property, which has contributed to strengthening criminal-law safeguards against offenses such as theft, fraud, and forgery committed within the metaverse. By contrast, in Iran, due to a restrictive interpretation of the concept of “property” and the absence of explicit statutory provisions, an adequate legal framework for the criminal protection of such assets has not yet been established. This study employs a descriptive-analytical method with a comparative approach and draws upon library-based sources, domestic and international legal instruments, and the legal practices of the two countries. The results may contribute to the formulation of legislative reform proposals in Iran and to the enhancement of criminal-law protection for digital assets in the metaverse.