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The internet has undoubtedly revolutionized every aspect of human life, from how we live and work to how we interact with each other.
Since the invention of the Internet, humans have explored its good, bad, and ugly aspects. Not too surprising, the Internet’s ease of use and astonishing freedom have made it easier for every human to be a criminal or victim.
While the Internet’s good side is well publicized and leveraged, lesser attention is being paid to the bad side, even though some members of society leverage this side of the Internet more than the good.
These perpetrators are sometimes teenagers, which is not unusual since they are more adept at the use of technology at their age compared to previous generations.
What is cybercrime?
Cybercrime is a term that describes any illegal activity carried out using a computer or the internet. It is the single most common form of crime. The Internet has created crime categories that did not exist before its wide usage.
Why criminals prefer the internet
Although it can be argued that technology typically permits people to commit traditional crimes online, it has at the same time bred new types of dangerous criminals. Hacking, phishing, website defacement, digital astroturfing, and the use of bots to troll others did not exist until the advent of the internet.
Criminals often prefer the internet because it provides a relatively anonymous, accessible platform to commit crimes with a wider reach, allowing them to target victims across large geographical distances and easily communicate with their syndicate members, often leaving less traceable physical evidence compared to traditional methods of crime.
Time and space do not matter in cybercrime. Criminals can plan an attack that happens days or years later and never need to meet their victim. They also do not need to be in the same location where the attack is intended before they execute their plan.
Cybercriminals commit crimes for reasons similar to traditional criminals. It is primarily for financial gain. Some may get involved in the acts for personal vendetta, political motivations, thrill-seeking, or a desire to prove technical ability.
Some cybercriminals may also be driven by psychological factors like antisocial behavior or lack of empathy.
Popular cybercrimes
In an operation that may have been the first online robbery, a group of criminals operating from different continents hacked a major U.S. bank in 1994 and stole over $10 million from the bank’s corporate clients’ accounts.
Similarly, in 1999, a programmer hijacked an American Online (AOL) account to post a file containing a virus named the Melissa virus on an Internet newsgroup. The virus spread like wildfire, overloading the email servers of over 300 corporations and government agencies worldwide. Affected organizations and individuals spent about $80 million on the clean-up and repair of affected computer systems.
To catch up with the emergence of this new criminal act, experts have designed various antimalware to counter cyberattacks before they could do any damage. In retaliation, cybercriminals have also become more industrious, trying to outsmart cybersecurity experts.
Some of the most commonly reported cyber crimes today include:
- Phishing/Spoofing
- Identity theft
- Ransomware
- Hacking
- Cyberstalking
- Intellectual property theft
- Child exploitation
- Romance scam
- Credit card/check fraud
- Malware
- Data breach
What to do if you are accused of a cybercrime
Just like any other crime, being accused of cybercrime does not confirm you are guilty. Only a court of law can pronounce you guilty.
Sometimes, you may be charged and not aware until an arrest warrant is issued against you. In states like Florida, you can easily check the public database to see if you or your loved ones have an arrest warrant issued against them.
However, it is recommended that personas arrestadas en west palm beach, should not go straight to the law enforcement office if they discover an arrest warrant against them. Instead, contact a cybercrime lawyer to advise on the best action.
Also, contact a bail bondsman to arrange a bail bond before visiting the law enforcement office and eventually court. This can make your bond application paperwork and approval seamless.
If you have been charged with a cybercrime and are confused about what to do next, the tips in this section can guide you.
Understand the charges
Research the charges against you and the possible consequences, including fines and jail terms. Understanding the allegation can help you prepare your defense and guide you in choosing the right legal representation for your case.
Consult with a lawyer
A cybercrime lawyer can provide expert guidance and represent your interests throughout the legal process. They can help you develop a strong defense strategy.
Avoid self-incrimination
Do not discuss the case with anyone, including law enforcement officers, without consulting your lawyer. Also, avoid signing any deal, irrespective of how juicy it looks, except if it is approved by your lawyer.
Preserve evidence
Avoid tampering with evidence. Consult your lawyer on how best to preserve it without tampering with it.
Understand your rights
A charge is not a court verdict. Familiarize yourself with Miranda rights, including your right to remain silent, your right to an attorney, and the right to a fair trial. You also have the constitutional right to bail.
