UN Launches First Global Cybercrime Treaty

Over sixty countries have signed the United Nations’ first cybercrime treaty in Hanoi, aiming to boost international cooperation against online offenses such as fraud, child exploitation, and money laundering.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the treaty as a vital step towards a unified response to growing digital threats. The agreement, first proposed by Russia in 2017, will take effect once ratified by all signatories.

However, rights groups and major tech firms, including Meta and Dell, have warned that the treaty’s broad scope could expand government surveillance and threaten privacy. Critics say its safeguards are weak and may allow misuse against journalists or political opponents.

Supporters argue that cybercrime has become a global crisis costing billions each year and that stronger international cooperation is urgently needed.