In light of recent geopolitical shifts, the landscape of international collaboration against cybercrime has been notably altered. Previously, nations worked closely together to share threat intelligence, aiming to mitigate cross-border crime. However, current geopolitical tensions have led to a more regional approach in cybercrime cooperation. Craig Jones, the former director of cybercrime at Interpol, highlights that this shift has been driven by a renewed focus on data sovereignty, with countries increasingly scrutinizing where and how their data is stored and accessed.

Jones notes that regional bodies are becoming more robust as individual countries assert more control over their datasets. This emphasis on data sovereignty is indicative of a broader trend where nations are prioritizing the ownership and governance of their digital information. Such developments underscore the complexities Interpol faces, as strict data governance and sanctions make international information sharing more challenging. The geopolitical divide has thus made it more difficult to maintain cohesive global cooperation.

At the RSAC Conference 2025, Jones elaborated on the various challenges and dynamics at play. He discussed how tools from sanctioned countries might limit Interpol’s ability to share information effectively. Furthermore, he emphasized the crucial role of both the private sector and law enforcement in dealing with cyber mercenaries, including sanctioning, tracing, and arresting these individuals. Jones also stressed the importance of a two-way collaboration between CISOs, security professionals, and authorities to combat cybercrime effectively.

Craig Jones brings over 40 years of experience in cybersecurity and law enforcement to these discussions. During his tenure as Interpol’s cybercrime director from 2019 to 2024, he spearheaded global operations, strengthened cyber resilience, and promoted international cooperation to tackle emerging digital threats. His prior work in U.K. law enforcement at various levels further enriched his perspective and expertise in addressing cybercrime.

The evolving geopolitical context presents both challenges and opportunities for global cybercrime cooperation. While the focus on data sovereignty may complicate international collaboration, it also highlights the need for innovative approaches to foster trust and facilitate effective information sharing. As cyber threats continue to evolve, stakeholders must adapt and find new ways to work together, ensuring that regional efforts do not hinder the global fight against cybercrime.