Cyber Threat Advisor - Migrant Smuggling
Organizational Context
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) works to promote peace, security, human rights, and development by combating drugs, crime, corruption, and terrorism. UNODC translates global frameworks into operational assistance, addressing the interconnected threats to sustainable development and human security. This role is within UNODC's Regional Office for Central America and the Caribbean, focusing on the Global Programme against Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants, specifically its initiative on the financial and digital dimensions of migrant smuggling.
Job Purpose
This position aims to strengthen UNODC's response to the growing use of digital platforms, encrypted communications, and online financial services by criminal networks in migrant smuggling. The Cyber Threat Advisor will contribute to the Global Action against the Financial and Digital Dimensions of Migrant Smuggling Programme, funded by the European Union. The role involves evidence-based interventions, including tracing financial flows and addressing the digital ecosystem that facilitates these crimes. Key contributions include enhancing knowledge on cyber investigation techniques, OSINT/SOCMINT, digital forensics, and virtual asset tracing, thereby improving investigative capacities and promoting international cooperation.
Responsibilities
The Cyber Threat Advisor will coordinate project activities in Panama, Costa Rica, and Colombia related to the digital component of the Global Action against the Financial and Digital Dimensions of Migrant Smuggling Programme. This includes activity coordination, procurement, contracting, and reporting. The role involves delivering capacity-building workshops and technical assistance on cyber investigation techniques, OSINT/SOCMINT, digital forensics, and cryptocurrency tracing for law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges. The incumbent will provide technical advice and mentorship on handling digital evidence and respecting due process. Coordination with diverse stakeholders, including NGOs, civil society, the private sector, and other UN agencies, is essential to ensure synergy. The role also includes monitoring and evaluating project activities, liaising with relevant parties like ISPs and financial service providers, supporting project visibility, and contributing to data analysis and reporting.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in law enforcement investigation or prosecution related to cyber-enabled crime, cybersecurity, electronic evidence, OSINT, or cryptocurrency tracking is required. Experience in designing and delivering capacity-building activities on cybercrime or digital investigations is desirable. Project coordination or management experience, as well as experience within the UN system or similar international organizations, is also beneficial.
Skills
Demonstrated expertise in counter-cybercrime law enforcement and/or prosecution, with the ability to apply this knowledge to migrant smuggling. Knowledge of international criminal justice policies, crime prevention, and UNODC mandates. Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Ability to provide training to criminal justice practitioners on cybercrime investigation and prosecution. Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation for decision-making. Excellent teamwork, planning, and organizational skills. Technical expertise in data science, information management, AI, IT, telecommunications, and safety/security is also noted.