HSI New York hosts inaugural Cyber Crime Symposium

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York last week gathered prosecutors’ offices and law enforcement agencies together to promote greater cooperation in cybercrime cases at the first Cyber Crime Symposium.

HSI would like the event to mark the first of an annual series. They are trying to help agencies recognize online criminal activity in all its unique elements, to track those performing it and adequately crack down on those who do. However, the investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recognizes this is no easy feat, and best done when multiple agencies work together.

“Transnational criminal organizations prosper in the borderless world of cyberspace,” Angel Melendez, special agent in charge for HSI New York, said. “Internet activity carried out by predators and cybercriminals have real-life consequences. The exploitation of children and adults; the flooding of opioids into our neighborhoods and the threats to infrastructure and businesses compels law enforcement professionals to evolve with technology. Strengthening partnerships, while building capacity in the cyber realm is a recipe for success in our efforts of driving out these criminals from the darkest places of the internet. The fact is, when it comes to disrupting cybercrimes, collaboration across the law enforcement spectrum is instrumental, as well as partnering with private sector entities. This event allows HSI to do both.”

Melendez spoke at the event, together with Geoffrey S. Berman, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York. The pair discussed the differences between traditional and cyber crimes, the technological capabilities to support cases, investigations of child exploitation and sex tourism, as well as enforcement cooperation.