Cybercrimes up in Jamaica as social media popularity increases, say police

Sherine Williams, Gleaner Writer

Head of the Cybercrimes Unit of the Jamaica Constabulary Force Inspector Warren Williams is warning Jamaicans to be mindful of the information they post as it can be manipulated by criminal elements online.

Cybercrimes occur when the Internet or computer is used as a tool to commit an offense against an individual.

Inspector Williams says the popularity of social media has increased certain cyber-related crimes.

Williams says cyber-defamation, where individuals use social media to post false and demeaning information about others is on the rise in Jamaica.

Williams says relationships are a breeding ground for these crimes and females are the usual victims. 

He says it is difficult for the police to arrest those who commit cyber defamation because the offense isn't a criminal one.

Meanwhile, Williams says Jamaica has also seen an increase in cyber extortion, where individuals are forced to pay for the removal of photographs which were illegally uploaded to pornographic websites.

Williams also named revenge porn as another major cyber related crime which has been on rise.

Inspector Williams says since January his office has received about 15 reports of cyber-related crimes.

However, he says he believes that these crimes are under reported.