On 3 and 4 November, the Cybercrime Programme Office of the Council of Europe and EUROJUST jointly organised an international workshop on criminal investigations of ransomware attacks. EUROPOL highlighted that only 1% of such attacks are reported and that this offence remains one of the most serious cyber threats. Hence, the event aimed at bringing together experts from countries around the world to share information on trends and techniques of ransomware attacks, exchange experiences and available tools to investigate and prosecute such crime and engage in international cooperation.
Representatives from Europe, South America, Africa and Middle East presented cases of ransomware attacks that they experienced and offered insights on the challenges and solutions to investigate and prosecute the attackers and help the victims.
EUROPOL and EUROJUST outlined recent developments of ransomware attacks and provided information on tools and public-private partnerships that can support investigations and facilitate the exchange of data.
The Council of Europe illustrated how the provisions of the Budapest Convention and its new Second Additional Protocol can be applied to ransomware attacks. Capacity building activities can be implemented to support criminal justice action on ransomware and a new “Guide for conducting criminal investigations of ransomware” has been developed.
The discussion confirmed that ransomware attacks can severely impact societies, economies and overall stability. It is, therefore, crucial to support international co-operation and sustain capacity building efforts across the globe.
