The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is officially announcing the debut of the Report Cybercrime and Fraud website, a new national reporting mechanism for fraud and cybercrime incidents. This system is designed for use by individuals, businesses, and organizations across Canada, establishing a centralized repository for crucial information. Jointly administered by the RCMP’s National Cybercrime Coordination Centre (NC3) and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), the data collected will significantly assist police in solving individual cases, disrupting large-scale cybercriminal networks, and developing a more comprehensive understanding of these threats to enhance public safety and prevention efforts nationwide.
A major challenge in combating these crimes has been a pervasive pattern of underreporting, with estimates suggesting that only 5 to 10% of all fraud and cybercrime incidents are currently reported in Canada. This low figure is often attributed to feelings of embarrassment, fear of reputational damage, or a simple lack of awareness regarding available resources. The new Report Cybercrime and Fraud platform directly addresses this issue by offering a centralized and user-friendly system for victims and witnesses. By utilizing this resource, not only will an individual’s specific case be addressed, but their information will also serve as a vital deterrent, potentially preventing others from falling victim to similar schemes.
If an individual or a known associate has been victimized by fraud or cybercrime, there are clear steps to follow to ensure the incident is properly recorded and addressed. First, one should remain composed and meticulously gather all possible information related to the incident. Next, it is essential to report the crime to both the local police of jurisdiction and all relevant financial institutions. Finally, the new Report Cybercrime and Fraud website should be utilized by clicking ‘Report online’ and uploading all available evidence, which may include screen captures, transactional proof, or copies of fraudulent communications like text messages and emails. The ability to report anonymously and submit information on suspicious activity, even without being a direct victim, is also available.
The launch of this new system marks a substantial advancement in Canada’s strategy to mitigate the impact of cybercrime and fraud. As RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme noted, since anyone, individual or organization, can fall victim, it is vital to have a clear, centralized place for reporting. This resource will provide victims with the necessary means to report incidents and simultaneously equip law enforcement with the essential information required for an effective response. The commitment to fighting these threats is echoed by Deputy Commissioner Marie-Claude Dandenault, who emphasized that everyone has a role to play in reporting to ensure connections are made between cases, criminals are brought to justice, and threats are proactively eliminated.
This initiative delivers on a key commitment made under the National Cyber Security Action Plan and bolsters the work of the specialized policing services. As serious criminal offences that can lead to significant consequences for perpetrators—including potential jail time and limitations on travel and employment—the reporting system is crucial for accountability. Canadians reported over $648 million in losses to the CAFC in 2024, underscoring the severe financial impact. While this new website provides an invaluable national service, victims must continue to report to their local police; furthermore, critical infrastructure and government entities should maintain their reporting channels with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.
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