Financial Crime World

Cybercrime Soars in Nepal: Experts Blame Lack of Laws and Resources

A Growing Concern

The number of cybercrime cases in Nepal has skyrocketed over the past year, with the country’s Cyber Bureau registering a total of 4,937 cases in just eight months. This is a significant increase from the 4,486 cases reported in the entire previous fiscal year.

The Biggest Attack Yet

In January this year, Nepal faced its biggest cyberattack, which resulted in the shutdown of hundreds of government websites and even halted international travel due to the disruption of the immigration server.

Types of Cybercrime

  • Financial Frauds: Topped the list with 955 cases lodged with the bureau, including phishing scams, lottery frauds, and other financial schemes.
  • Revenge Porn: Cases have increased significantly over the past year.
  • Fake Profiles and Online Blackmailing: With 901 and 799 cases respectively.
  • Online Defamation, Harassment, and Child Sexual Abuse: 700, 648, and 36 cases filed at the bureau.

Challenges in Combating Cybercrime

Lack of Relevant Laws

The country’s Electronic Transaction Act, 2063 (2008), does not address specific cyber-related crimes, making it difficult for authorities to handle cases effectively.

Insufficient Resources

  • The Cyber Bureau has only 84 personnel, including just 20 with the knowhow to crack cases.
  • The bureau receives around 60-70 complaints a day, but lacks the capacity and technical manpower to effectively investigate and resolve these crimes.

Experts’ Recommendations

  • Nationwide Awareness Campaign: To educate people about the dangers of cybercrime and how to protect themselves online.
  • Training Digital Forensic Experts: In all seven provinces to prevent large-scale cybercrimes.
  • Jurisdiction Over Cybercrimes: Should be given to all district courts.
  • Small Units in Each Police Office: Established to handle cybercrime cases.

Conclusion

The rise in cybercrime in Nepal highlights the need for the government to take immediate action to strengthen its laws and resources to combat this growing threat.