Cybercrime is an increasingly important area of criminology. It is both interesting and relevant in a world which is becoming more reliant on the use of the internet.
The Department of Justice classifies cybercrime in three main ways. Firstly, computer crime can be attacking other people’s computers, such as spreading viruses. The second way is by using the computer as a means to other types of crime. Thirdly, cybercrime can be committed by using the computer as an accessory to store illegal information (Cyber Citizenship, 2012).
Cybercrime is becoming a progressively significant realm of criminology as increasing numbers of social happenings occur online. A class on cybercrime will generally cover an introduction to the study of cybercrime, containing types, impetuses, incidence patterns, discovery, regulating, and deterrence (University of Edinburgh, 2012). Some particularly interesting topics covered can range from national security regarding cybercrime, internet use of sex offenders, and the how children and vulnerable people may be more sufficiently protected while using the internet (University of Edinburgh, 2012).
Cybercrime is an everyday element of the IT world. For example, when Olympics Games committees are considering security, cyber security is an important part (Arthur, 2012). Huge teams are dedicated to safeguarding against cyber-attacks and to handling them efficiently if they do happen. The Olympic Games are just one example where cybercrime is in the forefront of organisers’ minds. On a more general level, all businesses and individuals have to be aware of the crime. Most people have anti-virus software on their home computers, and companies tend to have larger programs installed.
Learning about cybercrime is a fascinating and worthwhile experience. In today’s society, with increased use of computers and of the internet, it is vital to be aware of cybercrime and how to prevent it.
References
Arthur, C. (2012). London 2012 Prepares for Cyber-Attacks. The Guardian. Retrieved from
http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/apr/04/london-2012-prepares-cyber-attacks
Cyber Citizenship. (2012). What is Cyber Crime? Retrieved from
http://www.cybercitizenship.org/crime/crime.html
University of Edinburgh. (2012). Cybercrime. Retrieved from
http://www.law.ed.ac.uk/courses/viewcourse.aspx?ref=107
