In addition to cybercrimes relating to crypto-currency, there are a range of computer and internet offences that can be prosecuted including hacking, online identity theft, phishing, maliciously creating and spreading viruses, using counterfeit software and selling illegal goods on the ‘dark web’.

The technology used to commit these crimes is constantly evolving, but investigations into these crimes are also becoming more sophisticated. Law enforcement agencies are working hard to detect and disrupt this activity and prosecute those responsible.

The dark web is commonly used for international drug supply and people trafficking along with sex offences and banking fraud. Information sold online to assist in offences being committed is also subject to investigation by organisations such as the National Crime Agency. The police now have specialist units that deal with these types of computer crime due to the Dark Web creating false IP addresses and their processes that are designed to hide the identity of the user.  This is how transnational investigatory police-led teams now work to hack and obtain access to systems, such as Encrochat.

Those involved in computer crime or online fraud can be convicted under the Computer Misuse Act 1990 or more generally under the Fraud Act 2006. EncroChat is a mobile phone company that had direct links with offences taking place on the Dark Web and directly linked to computer crimes.

Nicholls & Nicholls have experienced lawyers who can advise and assist in relation to allegations of computer crime. We also work with a number of forensic and digital experts to interrogate prosecution evidence in criminal cases.