Before you click,
know what’s at stake!
You have a bright future ahead. Just make sure you understand the boundaries online.
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks and similar types of cyberattacks are considered criminal offences in Australia under section 477.3 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) of the law. It is also illegal to use stresser or booter services. The maximum penalty is 10 years imprisonment.
Still going to launch that DDoS?
Law enforcement agencies take cybercrime seriously. It doesn’t matter where you are in the world or how it happens, law enforcement works together internationally to track cybercrime and stop it.
Getting involved in cybercrime? Think about the consequences:
- Conviction: You could get a fine, community service, or a prison sentence;
- Criminal record: This makes it harder to find an internship or job and you may be denied the entry to certain countries;
- Tools: Your computer and/or phone will be seized and your internet usage can be restricted.
Damage
Additionally, a DDoS attack can cause serious harm to people and companies:
- Emergency services are unreachable;
- Telecom/ internet service providers are offline;
- Financial damage for companies.
Report
Have you been involved in a DDoS attack, or do you have information to share anonymously with the police? Report it here: www.cyber.gov.au/report
Legal or illegal?
Would you like to know more about what is legal and illegal online? If you are in doubt ask your parent(s)/guardian(s) or a trusted adult for help.
You can also visit www.afp.gov.au/crimes/cybercrime website for more information.
Are you interested in building your digital skills safely, responsibly and legally?
Want to try something new, or find out how your digital interests could turn into a real job? Check out the initiatives below!*
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Australian Federal Police (AFP)https://www.afp.gov.au/jobs/roles/cybercrime-investigator
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Australian Signals Directorate (ASD)https://www.asd.gov.au/careers/
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Australian Defense Force (ADF)https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/jobs/army/cyber-analyst
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NSW Governmenthttps://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/cybermarvel/a-career-cyber-security
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VIC Governmenthttps://www.vic.gov.au/schools-and-cybersafety
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QLD Governmenthttps://www.qld.gov.au/jobs/career/digital-careers/digital-jobs/digital-graduate-program/graduate-roles/cyber-security-graduate-roles
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SA Governmenthttps://careers.sa.gov.au/explore-industries/jobs-in-cyber
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NT Governmenthttps://techtalent.nt.gov.au/
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TAS Governmenthttps://www.digital.tas.gov.au/digital-careers/services/career-planning/career-pathways/cyber-security-pathways
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WA Governmenthttps://www.jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/courses/introduction-cyber-security-skill-set
Online Games/Ethical Hacking/Capture the Flag
Example of international law enforcement investigation: OPERATION POWEROFF
Within Operation PowerOFF international law enforcement is closing down booter/stresser services offering DDoS for hire attacks.
DDoS attacks are illegal. For the past couple of years law enforcement agencies have seized booter databases and other information relating to these services. Anyone operating or utilising a DDoS service is subject to investigation, prosecution, and other law enforcement action.
Keeping cyberspace safe!
This campaign is led by the International Cyber Offender Prevention Network (InterCOP). InterCOP is an international network of law enforcement agencies that focus on the prevention of cybercrime. This campaign and InterCOP are co-funded by the European Union.
* The resources listed on this page are third-party initiatives selected because they are freely and publicly accessible. We are not affiliated with, and are not responsible for, the content, availability, security, or privacy practices of these external websites or platforms. Please review each provider’s terms of service and privacy policy before use.