Rhode Island launches initial cybercrime support, recovery hotline

Rhode Island recently launched the nation’s first statewide cybercrime support and recovery hotline, enabling residents to address identity theft, financial fraud, cyberstalking, cyberbullying and other cybercrimes.

Rep. Jim Langevin (D-RI), who helped secure $282,600 in federal funding for the system through the Department of Justice’s Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grant program, joined local, state and federal officials in recently unveiling the initiative.

“Victims of cybercrime often find themselves unsure of where to turn for help,” Langevin, co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus, said. “Thankfully, Rhode Island is leading the way to address this growing issue with the launch of the nation’s first statewide cybercrime hotline. This system will improve cybercrime victim services, increase access to recovery resources, and serve as model for the rest of the country. I was pleased to help secure the federal funding that made this project possible, and I commend the Cybercrime Support Network, United Way Rhode Island 2-1-1 and the Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center for their ongoing work on behalf of Rhode Island cybercrime victims.”

By dialing 2-1-1, victims would be connected to trained operators possessing the ability to assess the situation and place them in touch with organizations that can help.

In cases where a crime is confined to cyberspace, authorities said operators would be able to point to information technology services that may be able to restore a victim’s computer or mobile phone while bullying or stalking victims will be connected to governmental and nonprofit support groups who can provide counseling and other services.

People who have had their identities stolen will be able to access free federal, state, and local resources to protect themselves from fraud and help recover any financial losses they may have incurred.