Criminal Charges Laid in RCMP Cybercrime Investigation

OTTAWA, Dec. 12, 2017 /CNW/ - On December 8, the RCMP's National Division Cybercrime Investigative Team laid criminal charges against 31-year old Jimson Kannanthara James of Toronto. He was previously arrested on October 26 as part of an investigation named project "Adoption". Kannanthara James was charged with two counts of unauthorized use of a computer:

• Fraudulently and without colour of right use directly or indirectly, a computer system with intent to obtain directly or indirectly a computer service, contrary to Section 342.1 (1)(c) of the Criminal Code;
  
  
• Attempt to fraudulently and without colour of right use directly or indirectly, a computer system with intent to obtain directly or indirectly a computer service and unlawfully obtaining a computer service, contrary to Section 342.1(1)(c) of the Criminal Code.

"This investigation is related to claims about a hacker claiming to have compromised the systems of the international cybersecurity firm FireEye. So far, our investigation has revealed that only the personal accounts of one analyst employed by the cybersecurity firm were compromised. Our investigation continues and additional charges may come at a later date.

Cybercrime is a pervasive and growing problem that cannot be solved by one group alone. Working together, the government and the private sector are better able to create a safer cyber community. This investigation is an excellent example of a victim who took appropriate action by reporting a cybercrime and domestic and international police investigators working in partnership with private sector experts to ensure that cyber criminals face consequences for their actions."

- Inspector Rafael Alvarado, Officer in Charge of the RCMP Cybercrime Investigative Team at National Division

The RCMP's Cybercrime Investigative Team is mandated to focus on viable targets and investigate files that are deemed to represent the most significant threats, including those threatening Canada's government, business and critical infrastructure. The National Division Cybercrime Investigative Team was created in 2016 and has successfully conducted several investigations in collaboration with international partners, local law enforcement and federal government agencies.

The RCMP's strategic goal is to ensure a safe and secure Canada, which includes protecting Canadians from cybercrime and other forms of online exploitation. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant when using the Internet, and to report information on illegal activities to the RCMP.

As this matter is now before the courts, the RCMP will not be providing further details at this time.

SOURCE Royal Canadian Mounted Police