Companies Urged to Scan Work Computers for Child Abuse Imagery

UPDATE: A leading cyber crime expert has issued an urgent call for companies to begin scanning their work computers for child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Mick Moran, the newly appointed head of Hotline.ie, made this announcement during the IRISSCON cybersecurity event in Dublin on October 15, 2023.

Moran emphasized that the rising incidence of CSAM on corporate networks poses a significant threat that businesses cannot afford to ignore. “If you’re scanning the network for viruses and malware, how can you not monitor for CSAM?” he questioned, highlighting a crucial oversight in cybersecurity protocols.

Hotline.ie, established in the late 1990s, collaborates with tech companies, the Irish Government, and NGOs to combat illegal online content, including child abuse imagery and scams. Moran, who has a background in law enforcement and Interpol, stated that businesses need to take a proactive stance against this issue.

According to Moran, many companies treat CSAM as a “toxic issue,” often choosing to distance themselves from it. “This approach is problematic,” he warned, “as it violates two critical legal instruments in Ireland: the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act and the Criminal Justice Act of 2012.” If a company discovers CSAM on its network and fails to report it, they may be committing serious offenses.

The urgency of the situation demands immediate action. “Companies and compliance risk officers need to recognize that CSAM is essentially an insider threat,” Moran stressed. He urged businesses to collaborate with local law enforcement and organizations like Hotline to implement effective monitoring solutions.

In addition, the event featured insights from Dr. Hazel Murray of Munster Technological University. She addressed the need to protect vulnerable populations, particularly older adults, from cyber scams. Dr. Murray emphasized that enhancing digital literacy within communities is vital for improving overall cybersecurity. Her initiative has already seen success in Donegal, where local libraries now feature “cyber safety champions” to assist those in need.

Event organizer Brian Honan, founder of IRISSCERT, noted that human behavior remains a critical factor in cybersecurity incidents. “Our aim is to help businesses understand and reduce human risk, especially as AI evolves,” he remarked.

As the situation continues to unfold, businesses are urged to take immediate steps to safeguard their networks and contribute to a broader societal effort against child exploitation. The call to action is clear: companies must not only protect their digital assets but also play a crucial role in combating CSAM.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.