Ransomware is malicious software (malware) that blocks access to someone’s com- puter system or files on the system and subsequently demands a ransom to be paid for unlocking the computer or files.... Show moreRansomware is malicious software (malware) that blocks access to someone’s com- puter system or files on the system and subsequently demands a ransom to be paid for unlocking the computer or files. Ransomware is considered one of the main threats in cybercrime today. Cryptoware is a specific type of ransomware, which encrypts files on computer systems. The ransom is often demanded in bitcoins. Based on desk research, a series of interviews, and the investigation of several police files, this paper investi- gates the modi operandi in which cybercriminals use ransomware and cryptoware to make profits and how they launder these profits. Two models, based on the payment of the ransom via vouchers and via bitcoins respectively, are identified and described. These methods allow criminals to launder profits in relative anonymity and prevent the seizure of the illegally obtained money. Show less
This study examines the following investigative methods that are commonly used in cybercrime investigations: (1) the gathering of publicly available online information, (2) the issuing of... Show more This study examines the following investigative methods that are commonly used in cybercrime investigations: (1) the gathering of publicly available online information, (2) the issuing of data production orders to online service providers, (3) the use of online undercover investigative methods, and (4) performing hacking as an investigative method. For many of these investigative methods, the legal basis in Dutch law is ambiguous. However, a clear legal basis for investigative methods that indicates the scope of investigative methods and the manner in which they are applied must be available. It helps prevent arbitrary application of power by governmental authorities and is therefore essential for protecting the rule of law. The author examines how a foreseeable legal framework for the identified investigative methods can be created that meets the requirements that are derived from the right to privacy in art. 8 ECHR. The borderless nature of the Internet is also taken into account. The question is addressed to which extent digital investigative methods can be applied unilaterally across State borders. The analysis results in a list of recommendations to improve the regulations for digital investigative methods on both the domestic level and the international level. Show less
In deze research paper worden de volgende vijf opsporingsmethoden onderzocht: (1) het vergaren van publiekelijk toegankelijke gegevens, (2) online undercoveroperaties, (3) de inbeslagname en... Show moreIn deze research paper worden de volgende vijf opsporingsmethoden onderzocht: (1) het vergaren van publiekelijk toegankelijke gegevens, (2) online undercoveroperaties, (3) de inbeslagname en onderzoek van gegevens in computers, (4) het vorderen van gegevens bij online serviceproviders en (5) hacken als opsporingsmethode. In het boek wordt uitgelegd hoe deze digitale opsporingsmethoden in de praktijk worden toegepast en op welke wijze deze opsporingsmethoden zijn gereguleerd in het Wetboek van Strafvordering. Show less
