The Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) has highlighted the legal and technical challenges in combating cybercrime. The statement was made during a session with the Parliamentary Judiciary Committee regarding amendments to three laws aimed at preventing cybercrime.
The proposed amendments concern the Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Act on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. The Judiciary Committee has commenced its review of these bills and has engaged with the PGO for discussions.
Speaking to the committee, Public Prosecutor at the PGO Ahmed Naufal informed that these amendments would facilitate the prevention of cybercrimes. He explained that under the current legal framework, cases of blackmail and drug offenses often go unreported due to insufficient evidence. He attributed this to the lack of information on online transactions conducted through foreign companies. He, however, noted that with the proposed amendments, access to information would be streamlined through companies in countries that are part of the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime.
Additionally, Naufal said that the amendments would classify cybercrime as a criminal offense, thereby easing the process of evidence collection. He said that service providers would be empowered to obtain necessary information without a court order, thereby preempting criminal activities. He also said that the amendments would enhance the ability to trace scammers in real-time.
Furthermore, Naufal pointed out existing legal and technical obstacles, such as the absence of regulations and standards for service providers to store information. He said that the inconsistency means that some data might be available while other crucial data might not. He also said that the proposed legal changes aim to establish a reliable system for storing and providing information for specified durations.
The PGO emphasised that the Maldives cannot fully participate in the Budapest Convention without these legal amendments. Participation in the convention would facilitate international information exchange and strengthen the technical capabilities of the Maldives in combating cybercrime. The amendments are also crucial for addressing the evolving landscape of online crime, obtaining electronic evidence, and prosecuting cybercriminals effectively in the Maldives.
While the Judiciary Committee reviews the bills, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the creation of a National Cyber Security Agency under the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology.