On Saturday, the Indian government empowered the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (ICCC), also known as I4C, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This update, made through a gazette notification, allows I4C to receive and share crucial information with other agencies to combat money laundering linked to cybercrimes.
ICCC’s Expanded Role in Combating Cybercrime
The Centre’s new powers significantly enhance the ability of I4C to assist in tackling online financial crimes, including fraud in the banking system, online gaming scams, and betting site frauds. By coordinating with other agencies, I4C will be able to strengthen enforcement actions against financial transactions related to cybercrime.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) set up the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) as a nodal agency. Its primary mission is to address cybercrime in a coordinated, comprehensive manner, making it a vital component of the nation’s efforts to improve digital security.
Support for Enforcement Directorate and Anti-Money Laundering Efforts
According to a senior official, the new role of the I4C will assist the Enforcement Directorate in combating money laundering activities, especially those routed through the dark web, online betting sites, and other forms of cyber fraud. However, the Centre will primarily play a supportive and coordination role, without direct powers to prosecute under the PMLA. The official explained,
“This is to support the Enforcement Directorate in its fight against money laundering which is routed through the dark web, betting sites, and other online cyber frauds, but the role will be more on coordination and support, with no direct powers to prosecute under the PMLA.”
A Step Toward Tackling Transnational Cybercrimes
This development is part of the Indian government’s broader strategy to address the growing concerns over transnational cybercrimes. By empowering I4C, the government aims to enhance the capacity to investigate and address online financial crimes more effectively, ultimately contributing to the nation’s ongoing fight against cybercrime.
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