Police Crime Prevention Exhibition focuses on Cybercrime

The frequency with which Vincentians are falling victim to online scams, as well as an increase in reports of cyberbullying and the distribution of sexual images will see special focus being placed on public awareness of cybercrimes at today’s Crime Prevention Exhibition Showcase.

The IT Department of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), has been issuing warnings for months, cautioning the public about falling into cyber-traps set by scammers.

As recently as Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the police released a statement about a phishing scam on WhatsApp where persons were being deceived into believing that they had

won money and were being asked to share personal information, including banking.

Also this week in the news, a man and a woman were remanded to His Majesty’s Prison after pleading guilty to transmitting and distributing sexual images of a woman.

The exhibition, which is being held under the theme, “Community Empowerment, Exploring Diverse Perspectives!” is the culmination of activities for the RSVGPF Crime Prevention Week, 2024.

On hand will be representatives from various departments in the organisation, including cybercrime experts, and other emergency response service providers.

Sergeant Syon Shoy, said the RSVGPF has seen a notable increase in cybercrimes and are “stepping up our game” to bring perpetrators to justice.

“We are seeing a lot of scamming, especially the phishing scam. We are seeing an upscale in that with more reports coming to the IT Department. So we are trying to advise persons, when you click on links, make sure the site is secure and authentic. We are seeing a lot of revenge porn, cybercrime harassment, bullying, privacy violation by cybercrime use… so far we have been successful in prosecuting people before the court.”

Commenting on the phishing scam, Sergeant Shoy said people are finding themselves caught up in these scams due to lack of verification of information.

“…you are throwing your money without even verifying or calling someone.”

He added that a recent charge brought against a businessman from Evesham businessman who allegedly scammed a man out of $52,400 by impersonating a reputable vehicle dealer, shows the need for increased diligence in business practices.

“We advise persons to deal with a legitimate vendor who deals with cars… when you go on to any site, it can be a fictitious site … and your funds gone down the drain. We have many cases like that being investigated,” Sergeant Shoy outlined.

The Crime Prevention Exhibition runs from 9:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m outside

the Central Police Station, and for the first time, will see the inclusion of cultural performances and music from the RSVGPF Band in an effort to attract more members of the public to the event.