The rise of the digital marketplace has brought numerous advantages in today’s world. However, it has also led to an increase in dubious and illegal activities, particularly in the Pacific, where law enforcement agencies struggle to keep pace.
A recent report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) titled “Transnational Organised Crime in the Pacific: Expansion, Challenges and Impact,” sheds light on this issue. The report highlights various cyber-related crimes, including child sex tourism and romance scams that exploit social media platforms.
The report indicates that while the rate of smartphone adoption and internet access in the Pacific is not as high as in other regions, it is steadily increasing, complicating the challenge for local law enforcement. Governments are urged to support these agencies in developing the necessary skills to navigate the evolving landscape of cybercrime.
Child grooming, abuse, and sex tourism are significant concerns in the Pacific, which is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and tourist appeal. According to the UNODC, the internet facilitates these crimes, with facilitators in Samoa using online communication to connect with international offenders and local parents. The report also emphasizes that child exploitation is happening in illegal brothels, hotels, and yachts across Fiji, with human traffickers utilizing websites and mobile apps to promote these illegal services.
The report reveals that the threat of cyber-enabled crime in the Pacific extends beyond financial scams, significantly affecting children through Online-facilitated Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OCSEA), including the production and distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). Children are increasingly at risk of grooming and harassment due to the private nature of their internet use, compounded by a lack of awareness among parents about these dangers.
Another alarming issue is the anonymity of online criminals who target vulnerable populations. For instance, social media platforms like Facebook have become tools for remote cybercrimes—such as romance scams, fraud, and extortion—especially in Fiji and Papua New Guinea, where smartphone usage surpasses computer ownership.
The UNODC report notes that despite ongoing efforts to enhance cyber safety awareness, many individuals continue to fall prey to scams. Concerns are also raised about the rising incidence of cyberattacks on national infrastructure, citing incidents in Papua New Guinea and Fiji.
The report further points out that the number of cyberattacks is likely underreported, revealing a significant challenge for the Pacific region. The utilization of modern technology to facilitate traditional crimes presents additional risks, necessitating the development of national cybercrime and cybersecurity policies.
The UNODC report highlights that cryptocurrency and online gambling are additional areas of concern, with regulatory frameworks struggling to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. There are risks associated with cryptocurrency volatility, which could impact local economies.
Legislation such as Fiji’s Cybercrime Act of 2021 and Online Safety Act of 2018 are seen as essential measures against cybercrime. Nonetheless, the stigma surrounding reporting such offenses, particularly sexual crimes, continues to hinder effective action.
The report warns that without effective oversight and widespread education on OCSEA risks, organized crime may continue to thrive in the Pacific. It emphasizes the urgent need for improved data collection methods to assist governments and law enforcement in combating these evolving threats.