In Focus
Internet Safety
Malicious cyber actors across the world target U.S. citizens, businesses, and military and government entities every day. The "dark web" has emerged as an important hub of criminal commerce, a fully functional marketplace where hidden customers can buy from hidden sellers. Cybercriminals cause billions of dollars in losses, making cybercrime a continued threat for law enforcement.
Among the victims most vulnerable to criminal acts on the internet are youth. In September 2020, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children launched the Safety Pledge campaign, which provides free resources to help parents, educators, and caregivers learn about the risks children face online and how to respond.
Through various initiatives, such as the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program and the Law Enforcement Cyber Center, the Office of Justice Programs is working to help keep individuals safe while online and provide support for those who prevent and investigate internet crimes. See the Internet Safety Special Feature for information and resources from OJP and other federal agencies.
Events
- U.S. State and Local Government Cybersecurity Landscape and Resources
- October 14, 2020 | 1 p.m. ET | Webinar
- Explaining Internet Crimes Against Children Investigations for Child Advocacy Centers
- October 28, 2020 | 2 p.m. ET | Webinar
Resources
- National Cybersecurity Awareness Month
- Now in its 17th year, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity across our Nation, ensuring that all Americans have the resources they need to be safer and more secure online.
- Taking on the Dark Web: Law Enforcement Experts ID Investigative Needs
- This National Institute of Justice (NIJ) article provides information about an NIJ-supported gathering of experts, during which law enforcement's key dark web challenges and opportunities were identified.
