Cybercrime

'Cybercrime' describes a range of circumstances in which technology is involved in the commission of crime. It presents numerous and constantly evolving challenges to government and law enforcement. The interconnected nature of the internet makes this a global problem. While allowing for cultural differences, greater harmonisation facilitates the exchange of information and knowledge between governments and industry, and is crucial for co-operation between law enforcement agencies. This article begins with an overview of the nature and challenges of cybercrime before focusing on the most significant international instrument in this area, the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime. A brief review of the Convention provides a useful summary of some of the key aspects of legal harmonisation in this area. By way of conclusion it is emphasised that legal regulation is only part of the answer, and that non-legal measures such as education and technological solutions are equally important in addressing the challenges of cybercrime.