Financial Crime World

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DR CONGO: STRONGER PENALTIES FOR CYBERCRIME OFFENDERS

The government of the Dominican Republic has introduced stricter penalties for individuals found guilty of committing cybercrime, including scams and blackmail. According to a new law, offenders can face imprisonment ranging from three months to seven years, as well as fines equivalent to ten to five hundred times the minimum wage.

Reporting Cybercrime: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have fallen victim to a scam or blackmail, it is essential that you report the incident to the authorities immediately. The Department of Investigation of Offences and High Technology Crimes (DICAT) is responsible for investigating cybercrime cases in the country.

To file a complaint, follow these steps:

  • File a complaint with the Manager of the Complaint Section, who will receive and draft the report.
  • Verify and sign the report, then receive a copy from the Manager of the Reporting Section.
  • The original signed document is delivered to the Administrative Assistant of DICAT, who forwards it to the Manager of the Department of Reaction and Monitoring of Large Criminal Cases for investigation.
  • Upon completion of the investigation, the results are delivered to the Head of the Claims and Complaints Section, who contacts the complainant to inform them of the outcome.

Preventing Cybercrime: Important Recommendations

While the Dominican Republic has laws in place to protect against cybercrime, it is crucial that individuals take steps to prevent such incidents. Here are some important recommendations:

  • Be cautious online and avoid providing personal information to unknown entities.
  • Do not respond to emails requesting personal information from your bank or any other institution.
  • Be selective when accepting friend requests on social media and avoid posting sensitive information about yourself.
  • Use complex and unique passwords for all online accounts.
  • Verify the authenticity of digital payment transactions, especially if you receive payments for goods sold online.

Getting Help

If you are a victim of cybercrime or require assistance with reporting an incident, contact Morillo Suriel Attorneys at Law, a law firm specializing in criminal law and cybercrime cases. Our attorneys are available to provide guidance and support through our online consultation tool or in-person at our office.

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