Australian Federal Police and Telstra to fight hi-tech crime

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) will strengthen its world-leading capability in countering new technology-enabled crime under a new partnership with Telstra.

The AFP and Telstra today signed a Joint Cooperation Agreement to enhance their long-standing partnership by increasing ongoing collaboration and assistance in the information and communication technology sectors.

The Agreement will set the framework for the AFP and Telstra to work even more closely in the area of technology-enabled crime. It will assist the AFP in gaining a better understanding of the evolution of the telecommunications environment, training and development activities.

Under the Agreement, the cooperation between the AFP and Telstra will be focused on:

* Identity fraud and internet-enabled crime such as Phishing;
* Online paedophile activity;
* Child protection and education;
* Botnet networks and organised crime syndicates;
* Online terrorism activities;
* Targeted attacks on public, government and private sector computer networks.

Professional development of Telstra and AFP staff and employee secondment arrangements will also be undertaken as part of the Agreement.

AFP Acting Commissioner Tony Negus and Telstra Chief Operations Officer Greg Winn signed the Joint Cooperation Agreement at AFP headquarters in Canberra.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Andrew Colvin said rapid technological developments in the 21st Century had created potential for new forms of criminal activity to develop, as well as variations of traditional crimes.

“Technology-enabled crime is a complex, dynamic environment with new trends constantly emerging. We must continually look at improving our methods of detection and prevention,” he said.

"One of the most valuable ways to do this is for law enforcement agencies and governments to work with the private sector to establish effective procedures to counter technology-enabled crime.

“Secure communications networks, platforms and systems are critical to both national security and the business environment, highlighting the need for vigilance. This is fundamental to Australia’s security. It is crucial that communications and law enforcement experts work collaboratively in identifying and combating potential threats,” Assistant Commissioner Colvin said.

“Deepening the cooperation with Telstra is a perfect example of how the AFP can tap into the expertise, knowledge and technology of the business community to heighten security for the Australian community.”

Mr Winn said the AFP had earned an international reputation of being at the leading-edge of developments in enhancing the capacity of government, business and the community in dealing with crime founded in new information and communications technology.

“Telstra enjoys an enduring relationship with the AFP, working together to detect and prevent criminal activity. Today’s Agreement will only serve to heighten that mutual support,” he said.

“In recent times, the speed of changes in the information and communications technology fields has been nothing short of phenomenal and shows no sign of slowing. As a world-leader in communications technology, Telstra is well placed in helping to ensure the AFP remains at the forefront of global cyber crime developments.”