Cybercrime increasing at a growing rate

Internet Users Are The New Targets

Criminal acts dealing with computers and networks, also known as computer crime or cybercrime is on the rise. Hackers and other criminals often use the internet as a means to deal damage to other individuals, companies or organizations or sometimes, to just have fun. These illegal activities are committed through the use of a computer and Internet and may include hate crimes, telemarketing and internet fraud, computer fraud, identity theft, credit card and debit card account thefts and child pornography among others.

Most electronic crime cases happen when a computer system or network fails to use security measures to protect them from becoming a victim to computer crimes. Countries like the US have severe laws against cybercrime, but you will be disappointed to know that electronic fraud cases do take up quite a while to solve. Today, the FBI is handling more electronic crimes investigations than ever before. Sadly, there is not much to do in many cases except for cleaning up the mess and making sure nothing like that happens again.

According to the National Research Council, “The modern thief can steal more with a computer than with a gun. Tomorrow’s terrorist may be able to do more damage with a keyboard than with a bomb.” This makes cybercrime a very serious act and the crime can be committed against persons, property or government.

The dictionary definition of cybercrime is “a criminal activity committed on the internet.” The type of activity can range from hacking into a personal computer and electronic cracking to denial of service attacks, also known as DDOS attacks that cause electronic commerce sites to lose money. An example of cybercrime is mentioned below:

The Melissa virus, which first appeared on the internet in March 1999, spread rapidly throughout computer systems in the US and Europe. The damage done by the virus was not to any individual, but it was directed to the masses and caused 80 million dollars in damage to computers worldwide.

Cyberterrorism is another category of cyber-crimes which is on the rise. These crimes are distinct in nature and are targeted against the Government. With the growth of internet, Cyberspace is being used by individuals and terrorist groups to threaten the international governments. Cyber-terrorist attempts are also meant to terrorize the citizens of a country. If a terrorist group or individual is able to crack into a government or military maintained website that can also be dangerous.

Gaining unauthorized access to a computer or network with various programs with malicious intent is considered a serious crime in most countries. These countries also have laws to deal with cyber crime as computer crime is considered a real threat in these countries. Today, companies and individuals use various methods to protect themselves from becoming a victim to computer crimes.

If you have reason to believe that your computer may have been used for illegal activities or if you believe that you are under investigation for computer crimes, than you must contact an Orlando City cyber crime attorney. Cyber crimes are often difficult to trace, and with the help of an aggressive defense at your side, you can protect your rights and have your case dismissed.