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The United Nations Addresses Cybercrime

December 13, 2005
by Angelique Gervais
Technology Programs Columnist

In the past two years, the general confidence level in Internet security has increased considerably. However, recent discussions at the United Nations indicate that more attention is needed in the areas of Internet laws and global awareness.

Broader Focus

The recommendation by the UN to develop a safe cyber-marketplace will have positive repercussions for those studying internet security and data encryption. The UN wanted to encourage the global community to refocus its attention. Where so much attention has been given to criminal prosecution, the UN advised enhancing people's confidence in the economic security and privacy of the Internet. In the most recent Computer Security Institute survey, 53% of respondents reported successful attacks on their computer systems. This is clear evidence that there is still lots of work to do in this area.

Losses are Still High

Another call from the UN was for governments to undertake the swift updating of laws to encompass Internet law specifically. While much improvement has been achieved in the past 2 years, cybercrime still cost $142 million dollars last year in the US. The UN feels that the purposeful integration of Internet law into each country's legal system will help to further reduce this figure.

More Power to Enforce

The UN feels that putting the power to deal with this threat into the hands of law enforcement, judges, and prosecutors would help effectively address cybercrime. Relevant international policy and Internet laws would be regularly monitored for rapidly changing circumstance. The UN understands that combining more adaptable Internet laws with increasing awareness on new cybercrime threats could bring about a cyber economy, in which everyone can feel safe using.

Internet Guardians Wanted

To combat the rapidly changing arena, more people with Internet security and data encryption expertise are required. If you enjoy using computers and problem solving, you may enjoy getting training in Internet security. If the UN has decided that Internet security is a top priority, you can be pretty sure that there is a pretty good career opportunity just a few mouse clicks away.

About the Author

Angelique Gervais owns and operates a graphic design business serving rural areas in Northern Saskatchewan, Canada. Angelique holds a degree in Biblical Studies, and she is currently expanding her education in the areas of psychology and human development at the Masters level.