Crackdown on the evil gangs who prowl dark and dangerous web
AMBER Rudd has launched a £9million crackdown on paedophiles, organised gangs and other criminals who exploit the “dark web”.
The Home Secretary described it as a “dark and dangerous place where anonymity emboldens people to break the law in the most horrifying of ways” and a “platform of dangerous crimes and horrific abuse”.
Speaking at the CyberUK security conference in Manchester yesterday, Ms Rudd pledged to boost efforts to tackle offenders who use hidden online forums to trade in guns, drugs and images of child abuse.
She warned that a “sickening shopping list of services and products are available” on the hidden layer of the internet which allows site operators and users to keep their activities hidden.
Ms Rudd said that the £9million-plus funding is being provided to “enhance the UK’s specialist law enforcement response”.
Anonymity
She added: “They will use this money to help combat the criminals who continually exploit the anonymity of the dark web.”
In addition, £5million has been earmarked for dedicated cyber crime units so offenders can be pursued at a regional and local level.
According to the Home Office, just 30 per cent of police forces currently have a cyber capability that reaches the minimum standard.
The funding is part of £50million allocated to ensure that the criminal justice system is equipped to investigate and prosecute cyber crime.
Ms Rudd, who has been personally affected by fraud, said: “[The £50million] will mean that cyber crimes are investigated thoroughly and police can support local businesses and local victims, providing the advice and care they need. Whilst criminals plot and hide behind their screens, their actions have real-life consequences for their victims.
“My own father was the victim of fraud, and I know from personal experience the importance of supporting those who have been victimised.” She emphasised that business owners, cyber security experts and individuals also have an important role to play.
“In the same way that shops protect themselves from burglary with locks, alarms and security guards, I expect businesses to take equivalent precautions digitally,” Ms Rudd said.
“The world of cyber is fastdeveloping, and we need a fast-developing response to match – one that recognises that it is the responsibility of everyone in the UK to fight the evolving threat.”