There’s no denying the fact that online crimes are becoming increasingly prevalent as more individuals and businesses rely on the internet for daily activities. The surge in internet use has created numerous vulnerabilities that can be exploited for profit using illegal means. In Singapore alone, the number of cybercrime cases has risen from 33,669 to 5,376 between 2022 and 2023—an increase of 49.6%. The country’s law enforcers and policymakers are well aware of these developments, and they are taking proactive steps to reduce the occurrence of cybercrimes.

People who have been accused of cybercrimes, meanwhile, need to work with a criminal defence lawyer in Singapore who has experience handling such cases. This way, they can be assured that their legal representative can provide expert guidance, ensure their rights are protected, and mount a robust defence tailored to the complexities of cybercrime charges. Plus, they should also familiarise themselves with the wide variety of activities under the said classification, with which they can be charged. These may include the following:

Phishing

Phishing refers to using deceptive means, typically by masquerading as a trustworthy entity, to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details. It is often done through email or instant messaging platforms and victims are at times tricked into clicking on malicious links or attachments. Among the consequences of falling victim to phishing activities are significant financial losses and emotional distress as their personal data is compromised.

The Singapore Police Force recorded a total of 5,938 phishing cases and losses that reached SGD 14.2 million in 2023. While it’s typically done for financial gain, phishing can also be used for identity theft or espionage. The act, like many other online crimes, is punishable under the Computer Misuse Act, with perpetrators facing hefty fines and imprisonment.

Online Scams

Online scams encompass a variety of fraudulent schemes, including e-commerce and job scams, loan scams, and romance scams. These online crimes exploit the trust and naivety of individuals by presenting false offers or manipulating emotions to extract money or personal information.

E-commerce and job scams often involve fake online stores or job listings, while loan scams promise low-interest loans that require an upfront fee. Romance scams typically involve creating fake profiles on dating sites to build relationships with victims and then trick them out of their money. Deceit and theft are central to online scams, and it’s not unusual for people who fall for these scams to lose significant amounts of money, suffer emotional harm, and experience a loss of trust in online transactions.

Identity Theft

Another online crime typically carried out for financial gain, identity theft occurs when someone unlawfully obtains and uses another person's personal information. This can involve stealing credit card numbers, personal identification details, or other confidential information. Identity thieves may use various methods, such as hacking, phishing, or social engineering to obtain the information they need from their targets. The legal implications of identity theft are severe as it is considered a form of fraud and a violation of privacy. Victims of identity theft can face financial ruin, damage to their credit score, and distress.

Ransomware

Ransomware refers to a type of malicious software or malware that encrypts a victim's files, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attacker. This cybercrime typically begins with the victim clicking on a malicious link or downloading an infected attachment, which then installs the ransomware on their device.

The motivation behind ransomware attacks is almost always financial, with perpetrators demanding payment in exchange for the decryption key. People and organisations that are on the receiving end of ransomware attacks typically have to deal with unauthorised access to their computer systems and extortion. They can also experience data loss, financial losses, and operational disruptions. The latter can be especially damaging if the attack targets businesses or critical infrastructure. Around 1,899 cases of malware attacks were recorded in Singapore in 2023. According to the Singapore Police Force, these incidents led to a total loss of SGD 34.1 million.

Cyberstalking and Harassment

Cyberstalking and harassment involve using the internet to intimidate, threaten, or harass individuals. People who perpetrate this type of crime typically do so by sending threatening messages, spreading false information, or persistently monitoring someone’s online activities. The motivations behind these actions vary but often stem from personal grievances or the desire to control or harm the victim. Individuals who are accused of cyberstalking and harassment in Singapore can be prosecuted under the Protection from Harassment Act and may face penalties that include imprisonment and fines if they are found guilty.

Given the increasing complexity and prevalence of online crimes, it is crucial for individuals to understand the risks and legal implications associated with various online activities. Seeking legal advice before engaging in significant online projects or activities can provide the with valuable insights and help mitigate the risk of falling victim to cybercrime or inadvertently becoming a perpetrator. By understanding and adhering to legal and ethical standards in the digital realm, everyone can contribute to maintaining personal and financial security, as well as ensuring a safe and trustworthy online environment for all.