The RCMP want to make it easier for Canadians to report cybercrime and fraud.
Mounties say the information gathered on the new Report Cybercrime and Fraud website will help police solve cases and disrupt criminal activity.
The information gathered from these reports is geared to form a more complete picture of how these threats are affecting Canadians and ultimately prevent further victimization.
“The idea behind this is to simplify the process,” says Jeff Horncastle with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. “The new system offers a range of reporting options depending on the type of incident that the user has experienced and how much knowledge they have about fraud or cybercrime.”
He adds users can report for themselves, others or for businesses and organizations.
As well, the new system is not a replacement for existing reporting channels so the call centre will remain open.
It is estimated that less than 10 per cent of cybercrimes and fraud are reported in Canada, possibly due to embarrassment, fear of reputational damage, or a lack of awareness of what resources are available.
The RCMP says allowing people to do report online and anonymously on the new system will help bring those numbers up.
