Cybercrime & cryptofraude

In practice, we see that the Netherlands plays an important role in investigative services focused on cybercrime. Many of the large-scale campaigns to crack down on cybercrime that were launched in recent years were conducted in collaboration with these services. Computer forensics experts of the Team High Tech Crime (THTC) of the Central Unit of the Dutch National Police Service and the Financial Advanced Cyber Team (FACT) of the Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service specialise in investigating cybercrime and related money flows.

This area of law is continuously evolving in terms of investigative techniques, legislation and technology. Anyone who falls victim to cybercrime would do well to seek specialist legal advice. Our cybercrime specialists can help. They are there for you if you have been accused of or are the victim of cybercrime, like for instance crypto fraud or other large-scale frauds.

Digital forensics cybercrime

The investigative approach to cybercrime is different from the procedures used to investigate an ‘ordinary’ crime. The only evidence typically comes in digital format and digital forensics investigators depend on internet providers to supply them with forensic data for analysis. Investigations by specialist private parties can also help to solve cybercrime.

The options for digital forensics are constantly evolving. Under the Dutch Computer Crime Act III, the police have extensive digital investigative powers, including the power to hack, enabling them to check whether the evidence has been collected properly and whether it holds water. Our specialist attorneys know all the ins and outs of the Dutch cybercrime legislation and are well-versed in the underlying technology.

International focus

Cybercrime typically transcends borders. Investigations usually involve multiple jurisdictions and international cooperation. Investigators can draw on the expertise that international organisations such as Eurojust, Europol and Interpol have gained in conducting joint investigations and sharing evidence.

International sanction lists, such as the OFAC Sanction List in the United States, can also help to combat cybercrime.

Since investigative services cooperate across borders, a defence team should also have access to international resources. We have a strong global network and can help you navigate the maze of international treaties.

Digital assets and asset seizure

More and more people are investing in digital assets such as cryptocurrencies NFTs. Investigative services take an interest in digital assets if they suspect that gains have been obtained unlawfully and digital assets are seized on a regular basis. There are options for legal action against the seizure of assets, both in the Netherlands and internationally.

Cybercrime, digital fraud and money laundering

Gespecialiseerde teams van Dutch Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) en politie houden zich bezig met de opsporing van digitale fraude. Onderzoeken richten zich op delicten als oplichting en witwassen, waarbij grote waarde wordt gehecht aan de herkomst van (digitaal) vermogen en to money laundering.

Providers and developers of online services such as mixers are also on the investigative radar. The authorities see the use of mixers as a red flag because they obscure the origin of cryptocurrencies. There may, however, also be other reasons why a person or business might want to stay anonymous. This does not necessarily point to a crime.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that is used to encrypt a victim’s files, after which the cybercriminal demands a ransom. The impact of ransomware on a business is huge. Has your organisation become a victim of ransomware? We are there for you, both during and after the incident. We can help you decide whether or not to file a police report or to report the incident to the Dutch Data Protection Authority as a data breach.

Victim of cybercrime?

We also assist victims of cybercrime. It can be important to report cybercrime, crypto fraud or other forms of deception. Investigative services have more far-reaching capabilities to investigate than some private parties. So when recovering your damages, it can be very important to file a police report. It may also be relevant for your tax return to show why your assets have fallen. Furthermore, we are well connected to asset recovery parties worldwide.