INTERPOL has welcomed the adoption of the United Nations (UN) Convention Against Cybercrime by the UN General Assembly as a significant milestone in the fight against cyber threats.

The first legally binding UN instrument on cybercrime, the convention is the product of five years of government negotiations, informed by INTERPOL and other international organisations and stakeholders.

Complementing the current framework of UN crime-related treaties, it expands and updates the existing legal foundations of the international fight against crime.

INTERPOL’s active participation in the discussions ensured that law enforcement perspectives and existing practical solutions to combat cybercrime were integrated into the treaty.

The convention recognises the essential role of INTERPOL’s law enforcement network in facilitating international cooperation through the rapid and secure exchange of information on “computer-related crime” and other related criminal offences.

“Cybercrime is a uniquely borderless threat that is increasing at a dramatic rate,” INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza said. “Cyber attacks destroy businesses, undermine public institutions, and endanger lives.”

“Only by moving forward together in lockstep can countries effectively combat cybercrime. The UN cybercrime convention provides a basis for a new cross-sector level of international cooperation we desperately need.”

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