Penalties and preventative measures against digital sex crimes are to be strengthened, the government and the ruling Democratic Party of Korea said Tuesday.

Details of the measures were finalized at the government-ruling party meeting held Tuesday to prevent digital sex crimes. 

The plans come weeks after President Moon Jae-in highlighted the need for measures to counter the increase in such crimes including videos and images being taken without consent, and such materials being circulated online.

At the meeting, the government and the party agreed on changes that address related issues from regulating spy cameras to offering support for victims.

Under the plans, regulations regarding the import and sales of spy cameras will be modified to restrict access to such items without clear purpose.

The government also plans to provide devices for detecting hidden cameras to organizations such as subway and rail operators, and to carry out regular checkups.

For victims, the government plans to introduce a “one-stop” support service that provides financial, medical and legal aid.

Those convicted of such crimes will also face tougher penalties.

Under the plans, the authorities will confiscate profits made by circulating images and videos in violation of related laws, and those convicted of circulating so-called “revenge porn” materials will be subjected to tougher punishments.

Telecom and platform service providers will also be required to delete and block illegal materials, the cost of which will be levied on the individual responsible for circulating the material.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)