© Gamma

The extraordinary development of information technology has obvious consequences for ''traditional'' organised crime. While the use of data processing systems and networks is undeniably a step forward for society, it also makes it more vulnerable.

Terrorist groups, pornographers and paedophile networks, illegal traffickers in weapons, drugs and human beings, money launderers and cybercriminals exploit this vulnerability. The expansion of new communication tools makes it easier for them to develop their activities.

The Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime, which entered into force in July 2004, is the only binding international treaty on the subject to have been adopted to date. It lays down guidelines for all governments wishing to develop legislation against cybercrime.

Open to signature by non-European states, the convention also provides a framework for international co-operation in this field. An additional Protocol outlaws acts of a racist and xenophobic nature committed through computer systems.

16-17 April 2009, San Lorenzo de El Escorial (Spain): Conference on terrorism and cyber security (more ...) Speech by Terry Davis Media advisory