On the Prospective Measures of State Policy of Combating Crimes Involving the Use of Communications

At present, the situation with regard to crimes committed using communication technologies in the Russian Federation remains tense. The number of reported crimes of this nature is on a steady upward trend, while the detection rate remains relatively low. The amount of damage caused by these crimes is also on the rise. Cases of “phone fraud” targeting vulnerable segments of the population, such as pensioners and children, generate significant public concern. The appeal of communication services to criminals is due to the fact that their techno-logical capabilities make it easier to carry out various crimes, including fraud and false reports of terrorist acts, through anonymity and automation. In order to prevent the use of communication services for illegal purposes, the federal government is implementing a special policy. This policy includes both organizational and technical measures to meet the requirements of the law by telecommunications companies. It also includes the introduction of criminal and administrative liability for violations. The article identifies the most promising areas of this policy, including improvements to criminal law.