Publication date: 29.05.2024
Lawyer with 15 years of legal experience, specialization: family and civil law, inheritance, contract law, criminal cases, administrative cases, cases involving foreigners, migration law
In today's world, the Internet is becoming an integral part of everyone's life, but along with its benefits, the risk of becoming a victim of online fraud is also growing. Fraudsters use a variety of methods to fraudulently obtain funds or personal data from users. In Ukraine, online fraud is a serious problem that requires effective legal mechanisms to combat and prevent it.
Types of online fraud
- Phishing: Phishing is a method of obtaining confidential information (logins, passwords, credit card numbers) through deception. Fraudsters send fake emails or create fake websites that mimic real ones.
- Cybersquatting: This is the registration of domain names similar to those of well-known brands for the purpose of reselling or defrauding users. Fraudsters create websites that look like the official pages of well-known companies to get visitors' data or money.
- Fraudulent online stores: Creating fake online stores that accept orders and payments but do not deliver goods or services. Users are left without money and goods, and the fraudsters disappear.
- Social engineering: The use of psychological methods to deceive people and obtain confidential information from them. It can be a phone call from a ‘bank employee’ or a message from a ‘friend’ who is in trouble.
Legal mechanisms to combat it
- Criminal liability: According to Article 190 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, fraud, including online fraud, is punishable by various penalties depending on the severity of the crime. This may include a fine, restriction of liberty or imprisonment.
- Cyber police: Ukraine has a special unit of the National Police, the Cyber Police, which investigates crimes in the field of information technology. It detects and neutralises cybercriminals and protects critical information infrastructure.
- Citizen education and awareness: Public education is an important component of the fight against online fraud. Awareness-raising campaigns help citizens recognise and avoid fraudulent schemes.
- Cooperation with international organisations: As many cybercrimes are international in nature, cooperation with international law enforcement agencies and organisations is important. This allows for faster identification and detention of criminals operating from abroad.
Preventing online fraud
- Technical means of protection: The use of anti-virus software, firewalls, data encryption and other technical safeguards can help prevent crime. Regular software updates reduce the risk of vulnerabilities.
- User education: Provide education and training for users on how to use the internet safely, recognise fraudulent schemes and maintain cyber hygiene.
- Two-factor authentication: Use two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your accounts. This is an additional layer of protection that makes it harder to access your accounts even if your password is compromised.
If you suspect fraudulent activity or if you have become a victim of online fraud, it is important to contact a qualified lawyer. On the Consultant.net.ua website you will find experienced lawyers specialising in criminal cases, including fraud under Article 190 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. A fraud lawyer under Article 190 of the Criminal Code will provide you with professional assistance in protecting your rights and interests. If you need a fraud lawyer or a lawyer under Article 190 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, please contact our specialists for qualified legal support. Lawyer for Fraud, Lawyer for Fraud under Article 190 of the Criminal Code.
Conclusion
Online fraud is a serious threat to individuals and organisations in Ukraine. The effective fight against this type of crime requires a comprehensive approach that includes legal mechanisms, technical means of protection and public education. Qualified legal assistance is an integral part of protecting the rights of victims and ensuring fair consideration of fraud cases.
