DISASTERS PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CRIMINALS
Already an increase in cybercrime
Every (major) disaster offers opportunities to criminals. The outbreak of Covid-19 has already resulted in increased levels of fraud such as cybercrime (for instance phishing scams, online payment fraud and online identity theft). Interpol is seeing an increase in counterfeit medical products, fraud and cybercrime. Although in most countries the courts will be available to handle emergency cases (including criminal cases), detecting and bringing criminals to justice has become more difficult. Incidentally, hate crimes are also on the rise.
There is every reason to be vigilant now. Because many people work from home, there is a chance that the internal control mechanisms in companies and other organizations are less effective. This could mean that fraud will be discovered (too) late.
In addition to the fact that criminals must be prosecuted, the victims will also want their assets back. This can be done, for example, by means of civil proceedings. International cooperation is of great importance in this respect.
I am a member of FraudNet: the representative of FraudNet for the Dutch Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, St. Maarten, St. Eustatius and Saba). FraudNet is an international network of independent lawyers who are the leading civil asset recovery specialists in each country. FraudNet is operating under the aegis of the International Chamber of Commerce. Right now, we are strengthening our forces to track down stolen assets!
Karel Frielink
(Lawyer/Attorney)
(15 April 2020)
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