Police unleash resources to track deep web

SA’s economy faces huge risks

South African authorities intend monitoring the deep web on a daily basis as part of new plans to crack down on illicit transactions that cost the country billions of rand.

This is according to national police commissioner General Khehla Sitole, who addressed a seminar on illicit trade and counterfeit goods hosted by the Consumer Goods Council in Johannesburg on Friday.

He said there was an urgent need for authorities to advance technologically in order to monitor illicit transactions by crime syndicates on the deep web.

The deep web operates within hidden parts of the internet and cannot be accessed through normal search engines.

This affords criminals a platform to communicate and engage in sharing child pornography, illegal gun trade and drug trafficking.

Sitole said national security agencies need to access the deep web in order to track the movements of criminals.

“There is a dire need to advance technology. We all need access to the deep web. We are not yet there; we are still on our way,” Sitole said.

He said they would also analyse the modus operandi of criminals in order to update people about the latest scams before they hit.

“The moment you start to touch on issues relating to the safety of members of the public you should also consider the safety of the economy of the country. You need to have an immediate response.”

The police boss said the discussions between police, industry and organisations representing consumer interests would result in stronger partnerships to fight against such crimes going forward.

He said the country will scrap the basic policing training and replace it with the tactical response team course.

Consumer Goods Council CEO Gwarera Mangozhe said consumers must be educated to avoid falling into traps.

“Scams will always be there; what is important is awareness that will empower the consumer to make the right decision,” said Mangozhe.

Mangozhe said their new partnership with law-enforcement agencies and police would help to fight the scourge of illicit trade.

/ 123RF Cyber criminals, who have been operating with impunity, will soon have to contend with enhanced law enforcement, according to national police commissioner Khehla Sitole.