Computer crime conceptscyther5/Getty Images/iStockphoto
RCMP investigators have charged a Quebec woman who allegedly took control of computers by remote control and frightened people, including underage children in Canada and abroad.
The woman, 27, was apprehended Wednesday after they searched her residence in Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez, about 75 kilometres northeast of Montreal.
Authorities allege she used a malicious software that allows cybercriminals to control the operations of infected computers and spy on people through their own webcams.
The RCMP pointed out that some of the alleged victims were exposed to extreme pornography.
Const. Philippe Gravel, a spokesman for the force's integrated technological crime unit, said the investigation began in March.
"As far as we know for now, until we do the analysis of the computers, she is the only one involved," he said in an interview from Joliette, Que.
Gravel said evidence points to at least eight computers having been allegedly hacked.
"But watching the videos we know there are more and the analysis of the computers will tell us," he said. "We know that there are (people involved) in Canada and abroad."
Gravel said he does not know which cities were targeted but noted that everyone spoke English.
He said a remote administration tool, which he described as easy-to-use software, was used to get into people's computers.
The woman allegedly used various techniques to harass people, including eavesdropping on private conversations and communicating through the speakers of their computers.
It's alleged the woman posted videos on YouTube in which she can be seen taking over control of infected computers and scaring victims.
The suspect is also allegedly the owner of an online Canadian-based hacking forum that has 35,000 users worldwide.
She was due to appear in court on Wednesday afternoon to be arraigned on charges of unauthorized use of a computer and mischief in relation to computer data.
Gravel said it's rare for a woman to face such charges.
"It's the first time I've charged a woman with computer crime offences," he added.