The Department has published the findings from its international literature review on cybercrime to coincide with European Cyber Security Month.

The report, co-authored by researchers Sheelagh Brady from Security Analysis and Research Consulting and Caitríona Heinl from UCD School of Politics and International Relations, does not contain specific policy recommendations.

It is the fourth publication in a series commissioned in fulfilment of the commitment in the Department’s 2018-2020 Data and Research Strategy, in support of evidence-informed policy making.

Oonagh McPhilips, secretary general of the Department, said: “This report is timely as this type of activity has grown over the last six months, with criminals increasingly exploiting the online space during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Our traditional methods of policy development and legislative responses do not easily lend themselves to the dynamic and rapid evolution of online crime while balancing individual rights.

“This report will help us to think through Ireland’s approach to these knotty issues, working with colleagues across Government both here and internationally.

“The current awareness campaign by the National Cyber Security Centre and the Garda National Cybercrime Bureau is a very useful contribution to heighten the public’s awareness of risks online.”