Financial Crime World

Poland Fights Back Against Rising Tide of Cybercrimes

As Poland continues to digitize its economy and banking system, the country is facing an increasing threat from cybercrime. Online crimes are resulting in multi-million dollar losses for businesses and posing a significant risk to national security.

Types of Cybercrimes on the Rise

Cybercriminals are using various tactics to commit crimes, including:

  • Hacking: Unauthorized access to information systems or telecommunication networks, bypassing electronic security measures.
  • Sniffing: Cybercriminals use special software to intercept confidential information, including passwords and user IDs.
  • IT Data Integrity Breach: Destroying, damaging, deleting, or changing essential information, or preventing authorized personnel from accessing it.

Bank Account Fraud on the Rise

Cybercrime perpetrators are also using phishing and skimming tactics to steal personal data and access bank accounts. Phishing involves sending fake messages with links to websites that resemble a victim’s bank website, while skimming involves copying magnetic stripe or chip data from payment cards.

These crimes can result in significant financial losses for businesses and individuals. Pursuant to Polish law, phishing is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, while skimming is a combination of several crimes against the protection of information and property.

Cybercrime victims often suffer significant financial losses due to the illegal use of electronic banking. In many cases, cybercriminals hack into IT systems, steal vital data about the company and its contractors, and use this information to obtain financial benefits.

Victims may also be impersonated by cybercriminals, who initiate business negotiations and misleadingly instruct the victim to make payments to specific bank accounts. Once the funds are transferred, they can quickly be dispersed or withdrawn in cash using substituted people with personal data or bank details.

Blocking Bank Accounts: A Key Strategy

The most effective way to recover stolen funds is for victims to block suspicious bank accounts or transactions as soon as possible. Banks may perform this action on their own initiative or at the request of the prosecutor’s office.

Prompt action can lead to the recovery of funds, provided that the victim gathers proof of a crime and notifies the competent prosecutor’s office or Central Cybercrime Bureau before the money is distributed.

In conclusion, cybercrimes pose a significant threat to businesses and individuals in Poland. By understanding the types of crimes being committed and seeking legal assistance promptly, victims can increase their chances of catching perpetrators and recovering stolen funds.