As the digital market continues to expand, it brings along numerous benefits but also a rise in illegitimate activities. The Pacific region, in particular, faces challenges in addressing these new forms of crime, as highlighted in a recent report on transnational crime by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The report, titled “Transnational Organised Crime in the Pacific: Expansion, Challenges and Impact,” released last week, raises concerns about various cyber-related offenses, including child sex tourism and online romance scams that exploit social media platforms.
It notes, “While smartphone adoption, internet availability, and affordability are increasing in the Pacific, the complexity of these cybercrimes often exceeds the experience of local law enforcement.” Consequently, governments are urged to enhance the skills of these agencies to tackle the evolving landscape of cybercrime.
Child exploitation, including grooming and sex tourism, is a significant issue in the Pacific, a region known for its scenic beauty and tourist attractions. The UNODC report indicates that these crimes are facilitated online, with examples from Samoa where perpetrators maintain contact with local intermediaries through the internet.
In Fiji, evidence suggests that child sexual exploitation occurs not only in illicit brothels but also in legitimate establishments like hotels and yachts, with human traffickers utilizing digital platforms to promote such activities. The report highlights a lack of current research in this area, suggesting it will grow as technological access increases.
Moreover, the threat of cyber-enabled crime extends beyond financial scams to include the victimization of children through online-facilitated sexual exploitation. It raises concerns about the continuous risk children face from grooming and harassment due to the hidden nature of their internet usage and inadequate parental oversight, worsened by a perceived lack of awareness among parents regarding these risks.
The report also points out the challenges posed by “faceless” criminals who exploit vulnerable populations online. It notes that many social media users in Fiji and Papua New Guinea depend on smartphones, creating an environment where international criminals can easily reach isolated individuals using tactics like romance scams and extortion.
Despite growing coordination among regional law enforcement agencies to promote internet safety and cyber hygiene, many victims fall prey to scams. The report highlights a rising trend of cyberattacks on national infrastructures, noting significant incidents in Papua New Guinea and Fiji in recent years.
The UNODC emphasizes that cyberattacks and cyber-enabled crimes are more frequent than reported. The disparity in cyber awareness and ineffective reporting mechanisms poses a substantial risk to the region. The report warns that traditional crimes are increasingly facilitated by technology, creating pressures for the development of national cybercrime policies.
Concerns about cryptocurrency and money laundering through online gambling also emerged, as the rapid evolution of technology outpaces regulators’ ability to manage it effectively. The regulatory framework surrounding virtual assets remains inconsistent, which could lead to significant economic risks, especially in ventures like Vanuatu’s Satoshi Island project.
To combat these threats, the report cites key legislation in Fiji, including the Cybercrime Act 2021 and the Online Safety Act 2018, while acknowledging challenges in victim reporting, particularly regarding sexual offenses due to stigma. It stresses that without effective oversight, online child sexual exploitation may persist in the Pacific, and advocacy for widespread education on these issues is critical to protecting children.
The report concludes by urging improved data collection methods to assist governments and law enforcement in addressing these emerging challenges.