Computer Crime

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer explains that computer crime can be classified into two categories: crimes that use the computer as the primary instrument for felonies like identity theft or piracy; and crimes that use the computer and its related systems as the target such as systems hacking or viruses. For clarification, the definition of computer crime should focus more clearly on the crimes that directly involve computers and their systems as targets. The writer notes that as increasing numbers of people become computer literate, the digital universe becomes saturated with malicious users who seek to commit any number of offenses ranging from child pornography web rings to identity theft to hacking to acts of terror. The writer concludes that combating computer crimes will require aggressive efforts and sensible legislation.

From the Paper:

"Cybercrime, like terrorism, crosses international boundaries. A British man was recently busted for trying to hack into the FBI's computer systems, one of many examples of why computer crimes need to be investigated and dealt with differently than other types of crime. However, remote access to closed and secure systems is nearly impossible to arrange. Most sensitive data stored by government agencies or private corporations is not kept on servers that are connected to the Internet. Although Hollywood might make it seem that an eight-year old kid with a PC can hack into the CIA's database, in reality such crimes are almost impossible to commit. Ex-employees, however, and disgruntled current employees can wreak enormous havoc. These inside jobs are of particular concern for all organizations with sensitive data."

Sample of Sources Used:

• BBC (2004). Hot topics: Computer viruses. November 2004. Retrieved April 18, 2007 from http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/hottopics/computerviruses/crime.shtml
• Lovet, G. (2007). How cybercrime operations work;; and how they make money. Retrieved April 18, 2007 from http://www.crime-research.org/analytics/2524/
• McCormack, S. (2006). United States Joins Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime. United States Department of State. Retrieved April 18, 2007 from http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2006/73353.htm
• Swetenham, R. (2007). Quick links. Retrieved April 18, 2007 from http://www.qlinks.net/quicklinks/comcrime.htm
• United States Department of Justice (2007). Computer Crime Cases. Retrieved April 18, 2007 from http://www.cybercrime.gov/cccases.html

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