E-Blagh Platform: A Breakthrough in Reporting Illegal Online Content in Morocco

In a significant development for online safety, the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) of Morocco has revealed that its innovative digital platform, "E-blagh," processed an impressive 7,083 reports of illegal online content during its first three months of operation. This initiative, launched in early June, aims to provide a streamlined tool for the immediate reporting of online criminal activities, marking a proactive step in combatting a variety of offenses, from technology-related crimes to terrorism-related content and violations of minors' rights.

The DGSN's technical team conducted an in-depth analysis of the notifications received, focusing on the predominant category of technology-related crimes, which accounted for 6,788 of the reports. Alarmingly, 60% of these notifications pertained to digital fraud, while 20% were related to sexual extortion. Other offenses included defamation (10%), threats of violence (5%), and various other digital crimes such as incitement to violence and trafficking of prohibited substances.

To ensure timely responses, the technical teams behind "E-blagh" meticulously assessed each report before forwarding them to the appropriate judicial police departments. This method facilitated swift notifications to the public prosecutor's office, enabling the initiation of necessary investigations. Under the oversight of public prosecutors, these inquiries have led to the identification of 82 individuals suspected of criminal involvement, with 23 presented before the judiciary and national search warrants issued for nine others. Investigations continue for additional suspects linked to these offenses.

In terms of addressing issues surrounding terrorism and extremism, the "E-blagh" platform received 295 notifications concerning the incitement of terrorist acts, including 85 alerts connected to online activities promoting the terrorist organization "ISIS." These serious reports have prompted extensive investigative follow-ups.

The platform's engagement has also been noteworthy, with 4,117 notifications submitted by users willing to provide their personal information, constituting over two-thirds of the total reports. This level of engagement reflects a high degree of trust in the platform. Additionally, the "E-blagh" initiative garnered 564 reports from outside Morocco, showcasing its international reach with submissions from various countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.

The establishment of the "E-blagh" platform underscores fundamental security principles, including collective security, which encourages citizen involvement in enhancing safety. This initiative emphasizes the shared responsibility of reporting potential threats and alerting authorities to crimes that threaten public safety. The DGSN concluded by expressing hope that this collaborative approach will foster trust and strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community, paving the way for a safer digital environment for all Moroccans.