Specialist team in Durham to tackle rise in cybercrime
Durham Constabulary say we'll never be able to police the dark web but they are doing more to investigate criminals behind it.
Durham Police have set up a specialist cybercrime team after a huge rise in offences.
The Digital Intelligence and Investigation Team, based at Chester-le-Street, comprises of specially trained detectives and police staff headed up by a Detective Inspector, overseen by DCI Gavin Heckles.
Park of their task is to investigate the Dark Web, used by criminals on a hidden part of the internet.
DC Jonathan Stoker said:
“Law enforcement has been behind the times as far as digital investigation has gone. We really need to step up our game and react to this cybercrime, this cyber threat.
“I don’t think we’ll ever going to be able to police the dark web but certainly police forces across the north east, including ourselves, are going to be interacting on the dark web and look at some of the forums on there and some of the places that information is bought and sold.”
The team will not only investigate digital crimes but also gather intelligence and stay up to-date with the latest digital threats, viruses and scams and pass it onto the public to help prevent more crimes.
DCI Gavin Heckles, said:
“We have always had a cybercrime team within the wider CID function but the emerging crime patterns and trends over recent months have pointed towards a substantial growth in this type of offence. In response to this, we have set up this new dedicated team comprising of digital specialists to enable Durham Constabulary to provide a digital Neighbourhood policing presence and response.
“Working with agencies from The Safe Durham Partnership we will educate not only the public but the business community too.
Rachael Shimmin, Durham County Council, corporate director for Children and Adults Services, said:
“As the use of technology and the internet grows in society, there is more risk of people becoming victims.
“The Get Safe Online event gives everyone the opportunity to learn more about **computer crime, digital threats, online fraud and more importantly how to stay safe online to avoid these scams.”