Brazil Signs Landmark UN Cybercrime Convention in Hanoi

Brazil has formally joined the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, a pivotal international treaty designed to enhance global efforts in combating digital illicit activities. The signing ceremony took place in Hanoi, Vietnam, on October 25, 2025, where Andrei Augusto Passos Rodrigues, the Director-General of the Federal Police of the Federative Republic of Brazil, affixed his signature to the agreement.

A New Era of International Cooperation

The United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, also known as the Hanoi Convention, was adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2024. It represents the first comprehensive global treaty specifically addressing cybercrime, aiming to establish a universal framework for investigating and prosecuting online offenses. The convention seeks to facilitate international cooperation in the criminal enforcement of cybercrime laws, requiring participating nations to criminalize various forms of digital misconduct.

Key Objectives and Provisions

The convention outlines several critical objectives to strengthen collective defenses against cybercrime:

• Criminalization of Cyber Offenses: It mandates the criminalization of acts such as illegal access to information systems, data interference, and the use of computer systems for fraud or child exploitation.
• Enhanced Evidence Collection: The treaty establishes procedures for law enforcement agencies to collect and preserve electronic evidence across borders.
• Frameworks for Collaboration: It creates mechanisms for mutual legal assistance and extradition, crucial for addressing the transnational nature of cybercrime.
• 24/7 Cooperation Network: A dedicated network will be established to facilitate rapid processing of data requests and enable countries to trace funds, identify perpetrators, and recover stolen assets.
• Victim Protection: For the first time in an international treaty, the non-consensual sharing of intimate images is recognized as a criminal offense, marking a significant victory for victims of online abuse.

Brazil's Commitment to Digital Security

Brazil's decision to sign the UN Cybercrime Convention underscores its commitment to strengthening its legal and operational capabilities against the growing threat of digital crimes. The country has previously engaged in international efforts against cybercrime, having acceded to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime in November 2022. This new UN convention provides an additional, broader framework for global collaboration, reflecting the increasing sophistication and global reach of cyber threats.

The signing ceremony in Hanoi saw over 110 countries gather, with 65 nations becoming initial signatories, highlighting widespread international recognition of the urgent need for coordinated action against cybercrime. The convention is expected to enter into force ninety days after the deposit of the fortieth instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval, or accession.