Cybercrime in Poland

About

Cybercrime is criminal activity that targets computer networks, computers or other network devices. It usually involves damaging devices or networks with the intent of financial gain, but there are also attacks by cybercriminals or hackers for political or personal reasons. Phishing, hacking or DDOS attacks are becoming an increasingly common threat in the rapidly evolving Internet.

Cybercriminals are both individuals and organizations. Most are highly technically skilled and operate in an organized manner using sophisticated techniques. The cybercriminals themselves and the infrastructure they use are often located outside of a country’s borders. In such situations, international cooperation combining the activities of services and organizations such as EUROPOL, INTERPOL, organizations of banks, payment institutions and associations of electronic service providers is essential.

Cybercrime is a global threat and the scale and complexity of cyber attacks is very broad. Criminals take advantage of new technologies used by consumers in good faith, masking their actions (phishing), becoming almost anonymous, so active cooperation with law enforcement is crucial. Only the active cooperation of victimized entities with law enforcement can quickly remove the negative effects of hacking or DDOS attacks.

The most common forms of cybercrime include:

  • phishing – fraudulent emails requesting security and personal information;
  • hacking – gaining unauthorized access to a computer, including social media and email passwords;
  • use of malware – including ransomware, with which criminals disrupt a computer, such as spreading viruses, installing spyware, taking over files and extorting ransoms;
  • DDOS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks on websites – actions aimed at preventing the use of websites, often combined with extortion;
  • fake shopping sites – scammers create fake e-commerce sites designed to mimic known and legitimate retailers;
  • cyber stalking or harassment.

Our services include:

  • legal assistance to businesses and individuals who have been victims of cybercrime;
  • legal support in investigations of hacking incidents;
  • cooperation with law enforcement agencies;
  • cooperation with banks (Polish Bank Association);
  • cooperation with foreign payment institutions;
  • cooperation with cryptocurrency exchanges;
  • cooperation with IT experts;
  • crisis management in case of cyber attacks;
  • support in responding to and recovering from cyber incidents, including recovering a company’s operational capability after hacking and DDOS attacks.

Our law firm directs its services to:

  • entities harmed by cybercrimes;
  • institutions and organizations exposed to attacks via computer networks;
  • cyber security experts seeking legal support;
  • banks, payment institutions and cryptocurrency exchanges;
  • individuals seeking professional legal opinions in the field of computer criminal law.
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Summary: Cybercrime

Cybercrime is crime committed with the use of a computer as an instrument to further illegal ends.

Examples of cybercrime

Widespread types of cybercrime are: phishing, ransomware (also running ransomware attack), identity theft, malware, cyberstalking, sending malicious software and spam via email, data breach. In 2021 11 type of malware were described. The most typical are:

  • 1. Viruses
  • 2. Worms
  • 3. Trojans
  • 4. Ransomware
  • 5. Adware
  • 6. Spyware
  • 7. Rootkits
  • 8. Botnets.

There is also cyberextortion which is a category of cybercrime that involves digitally threatening or coercing someone to do something against their will.

Cybercrime activities target computer systems or networks, may infect them with malware to damage devices or stop them. Computers around the world are at risk as cyber criminals do not recognise state borders: cybercrime is becoming more expensive as the number of attacks per company keeps increasing. The global indicator ‘Estimated Cost of Cybercrime’ in the cybersecurity market was forecast to continuously increase between 2023 and 2028 by a total 5.7 trillion U.S. dollars (+69.94 percent). Infrastructure security agencies do all they can to minimize internet fraud and make using a computer as safe as possible.

Cybercriminals

Cyber criminals are always a step ahead of international security organizations though. In this situation individuals should take measures to protect themselves from global cybercrime. Basic rules to follow: never give out personal data if not necessary, never work on a computer without a valid antivirus program, buy and sell online only on recognised websites, report all cyber attacks and identity fraud to the internet crime complaint center.

Dark web

Dark web is a very dangerous place and must be avoided. It refers to encrypted online content and allows individuals to hide their identity and location from others.

If you or your organization is the victim of a network intrusion, data breach, or ransomware attack, contact your nearest police station.

Protect Your Digital Assets with Expert Legal Support Against Cybercrime

Cybercrime is a growing threat that can disrupt businesses, compromise personal data, and cause significant financial losses. Whether your organization has been targeted by hackers, experienced phishing attacks, or suffered from malware or DDOS incidents, our law firm is here to provide the legal expertise you need.

We offer comprehensive support, including legal assistance for victims, collaboration with law enforcement and IT experts, and strategic guidance to recover from cyber incidents. Our tailored approach ensures your rights are protected and your operations can quickly return to normal.

Don’t let cybercriminals jeopardize your business or personal security. Contact us today for professional legal assistance and take the first step toward safeguarding your digital assets.

Any questions?

Maciej Zaborowski

Advocate, Managing Partner

+48 509 211 000

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we help you?

Contact
the experts

Maciej Zaborowski

Advocate, Managing Partner

Paweł Gołębiewski

Attorney-at-law, Head of International Criminal Law Practice

FAQ

What is cybercrime under Polish law?

Cybercrime refers to criminal activities targeting computer networks, computers, or other digital devices, often aiming for financial gain but also including political or personal motives. Examples include hacking, phishing, malware deployment, ransomware attacks, and denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks intended to disrupt services or steal information.

What are the most common types of cybercrime experienced in Poland?

The most frequent cybercrimes include:

  • Phishing: Sending fraudulent emails or messages to obtain personal data or security credentials.
  • Hacking: Unauthorized access to computers, social media accounts, or email to steal information or disrupt services.
  • Malware and Ransomware: Infecting devices with malicious software that steals data, disrupts operations, or demands payment for restoration.
  • DDoS Attacks: Overloading websites or servers to make them inaccessible, often combined with extortion demands.
  • Fake Shopping Sites: Creating counterfeit e-commerce platforms mimicking trustworthy retailers to defraud customers.
  • Cyberstalking and Harassment: Repeated online harassment or threats targeting individuals or groups.

Who commits cybercrime in Poland?

Cybercriminals may be individuals or organized groups, often highly skilled in technology and using sophisticated methods. Many operate from outside Poland, which makes international cooperation essential to effectively combat cybercrime.

How does Poland combat cybercrime?

Combating cybercrime involves the cooperation of:

  • Polish law enforcement agencies including specialized cybercrime units.
  • Prosecutors and courts applying relevant laws to investigate, prosecute, and punish offenders.
  • International organizations like EUROPOL and INTERPOL coordinating cross-border efforts.
  • Financial and payment institutions including banks and cryptocurrency exchanges working together to detect and prevent fraud.
  • IT security experts assisting in investigations and remediation.

What legal support is available for victims of cybercrime in Poland?

  • Legal assistance for individuals and businesses targeted by cybercrime.
  • Support during investigations of hacking, phishing, and other cyber incidents.
  • Crisis management services to respond to cyberattacks and limit operational damage.
  • Cooperation with law enforcement and financial institutions for asset recovery and evidence gathering.
  • Help restoring operational capabilities following attacks such as ransomware or DDoS.

Who can benefit from cybercrime legal services in Poland?

  • Companies and institutions vulnerable to cyber-attacks on their networks and systems.
  • Individuals whose data or financial resources have been compromised.
  • Cybersecurity professionals seeking specialized legal advice.
  • Financial entities including banks, payment processors, and cryptocurrency platforms needing to comply with regulations and manage fraud risks.

What are the challenges in addressing cybercrime?

  • Cybercriminals’ methods evolve rapidly, demanding up-to-date expertise and technology.
  • Many perpetrators are located outside Poland’s jurisdiction, requiring international law enforcement collaboration.
  • Victims may suffer significant financial and operational damage before detection or intervention.
  • Preserving digital evidence and maintaining chain of custody is complex yet critical for successful prosecutions.

How can individuals and businesses protect themselves against cybercrime in Poland?

  • Implement strong cybersecurity measures and regular system updates.
  • Train employees on recognizing phishing and other scams.
  • Use multi-factor authentication and robust password policies.
  • Monitor transactions and digital activities for anomalies.
  • Establish incident response plans and legal channels for timely reporting of attacks.

How important is cooperation between various stakeholders in fighting cybercrime?

Highly important. Effective response requires collaboration between law enforcement, financial institutions, cybersecurity experts, IT providers, and international agencies to share intelligence, identify threats, and jointly pursue offenders. Poland actively participates in such partnerships to strengthen prevention and enforcement.

What should victims do if they suspect they have been targeted by cybercrime in Poland?

  • Immediately report the incident to their bank or payment providers to prevent further financial loss.
  • Notify law enforcement agencies or file a complaint online or at local police stations.
  • Preserve all communications and digital evidence related to the cyber incident.
  • Seek legal advice to understand rights and options for restitution or criminal proceedings.
  • Cooperate with forensic experts and authorities for thorough investigation.