Financial Crimes in the Digital Age: A Concern in Modernizing Bhutan
Bhutan, a small kingdom nestled in the Himalayas, has been rapidly modernizing its economy and infrastructure. However, this progress brings with it the growing threat of financial crimes in the digital age.
The Need for Cybercrime Policies and Strategies
Cybercrime policies and strategies are crucial in preventing and combating these crimes. Unfortunately, Bhutan does not have any officially recognized national cybercrime policies or strategies. However, the Government of Bhutan framed the Information and Communications Technology Policy and Strategies (BIPS) in 2009 to make governance more efficient, transparent, and inclusive.
Emphasis on Creating an Info-Culture
The Policy Guideline on Information Sharing of Bhutan (2016) emphasizes creating a Bhutanese info-culture, where ICT and media can help boost internal efficiency and improve citizens’ access to information and services. The Information and Media Policy of the Royal Government of Bhutan recognizes the central role of information and media in development, shaping values, lifestyles, national economies, and socio-political systems.
The Bhutan Information, Communications and Media Act (2018)
Bhutan has adopted the Bhutan Information, Communications and Media Act (2018), which replaced the Information and Communication Media Act 2006. The new act provides functions, responsibilities, and powers of the Ministry of Information and Communications; establishes the Bhutan Infocomm and Media Authority; and addresses cyber issues such as e-governance, e-commerce, consumer protection, and online privacy.
Key Provisions
- Online privacy (sections 336-343)
- Security of payment and personal information (sections 344-346)
- Unsolicited e-mail (section 347)
- Communications with children (sections 348-351)
- Unlawful disclosure of data and information (section 388)
- Unauthorized downloading, copying, and extraction of data (section 389)
- Tampering with computer source code (section 390)
- Unauthorized interception or access to critical information infrastructure (section 403)
- Deliberate interference (sections 405-407)
- Unauthorized access to computer material (sections 413-414)
- Identity theft (section 418)
The Penal Code of Bhutan
In addition, the Penal Code of Bhutan includes crimes such as eavesdropping (Section 468), tampering with computer materials (Section 472), and unlawful possession of computer materials (Section 474).
Combating Cybercrime
To combat cybercrime, the Royal Bhutan Police has a Cyber Crime Unit that investigates all types of cybercrime. The unit also assists police stations in investigating cybercrimes committed within their jurisdiction.
International Cooperation
The INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) for Bhutan is part of the Investigation Bureau and facilitates the exchange of confidential police data between RBP and international police communities. The NCB’s major objectives include assisting RBP in tracking down fugitives and fighting regional, transnational, and international crime.
Conclusion
Despite these efforts, financial crimes in the digital age remain a significant concern for Bhutan. As the country continues to modernize its economy and infrastructure, it is crucial that it strengthens its cybercrime policies and strategies to prevent and combat these crimes effectively.