Cyberpunk RED

Netwatch

3 min read

🕸️ Netwatch

“We stand between humanity and the digital abyss.”

Network Oversight, universally known as Netwatch, is the global organization responsible for policing the NET and maintaining the Blackwall—the firewall separating the Old NET from the ravaged remains beyond.

📋 Overview

AspectDetails
Full NameNetwork Oversight
FoundedPost-DataKrash (2023)
HeadquartersLondon, ECEU
Primary RoleNET security, Blackwall maintenance
JurisdictionGlobal (extraterritorial)

🎯 Mission

Netwatch has three primary objectives:

  1. Maintain the Blackwall — Prevent Old NET horrors from escaping
  2. Police the NET — Hunt rogue AIs, illegal programs, and dangerous netrunners
  3. Investigate cyber-crimes — Track down black ICE dealers, data terrorists

🔥 The Blackwall

After the DataKrash of 2023, the NET became a nightmare. Rogue AIs evolved beyond human control, and entire data fortresses became digital killing grounds.

Netwatch erected the Blackwall—a massive firewall that:

  • Seals off the Old NET
  • Contains rogue AIs and hostile programs
  • Monitorsall traffic attempting to cross
  • Uses lethal force (digital and physical) against violators

The Blackwall is not perfect. Things occasionally break through. When they do, Netwatch agents are the first responders.

👥 Netwatch Agents

Netwatch employs two types of operatives:

Netrunners

Elite netrunners who:

  • Monitor the Blackwall
  • Hunt illegal programs and rogue AIs
  • Conduct NET-based investigations
  • Have authority to “flatline” dangerous netrunners

Field Agents

Physical operators who:

  • Track down cybercriminals in meatspace
  • Raid illegal data havens
  • Protect critical infrastructure
  • Work with local law enforcement (or bypass them)

Both are feared. If Netwatch is after you, your options are run, hide, or die.

⚖️ Authority

Netwatch operates with extraterritorial authority granted by international treaty. They can:

  • Arrest suspects anywhere
  • Confiscate cyberdecks and equipment
  • Shut down local NET architectures
  • Override local law enforcement

In practice, this means: ✅ They’re untouchable ✅ They answer to no one ✅ They can (and will) jack you without warrant

🎲 GM Notes

Using Netwatch in Your Game

As Antagonists:

  • PCs who hack corporate systems may get flagged
  • Stealing black ICE or AI fragments brings Netwatch
  • They don’t negotiate—comply or get flatlined

As Background Threat:

  • Netwatch is always watching major NET traffic
  • Big scores attract their attention
  • They’re like the FBI—you don’t want them involved

As Quest Givers:

  • Netwatch might hire PCs to investigate threats
  • Especially useful if the threat is beyond-the-Blackwall
  • They pay well but demand absolute secrecy

Combat Stats (Netwatch Agent)

For a full stat block, see Netwatch Agent (if created).

Quick Stats:

  • Level: Lieutenant or Mini-Boss
  • Skills: Netrunning 14+, Investigation 12+, Firearms 12+
  • Equipment: Premium cyberdeck, black ICE, sidearm
  • Special: Can call for backup (arrives in 2d6 minutes)

🔗 Related

  • The DataKrash — Why Netwatch exists
  • The NET — What they police
  • Netrunning — Rules for NETraccess
  • Rogue AIs — What lives beyond the Blackwall

(Source: Cyberpunk RED Core Rulebook, p. 210-211)

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