Cybercrime
Cybercrime occurs when unauthorized people enter and manipulate computer systems or networks to steal, modify or delete information. The perpetrators may target individuals, governments, businesses or utilities. In a more serious case, they can also be involved in large scale hacking attacks that have the potential to cause physical harm.
The primary targets of cybercrime include federal agencies (the White House, Congress, Department of Homeland Security and others), military personnel, business/corporations and civilians. Motivations for engaging in cyber crime can range from power reassurance, anger or retaliation, instilling fear and intimidation, sadistic behaviors, or financial gain (i.e., extortion).
Some of the main types of cybercrime are data breaches, ransomware and social media hacking. The impact of these crimes can be severe and can have a significant financial, personal and professional impact on the victim. Among other things, it can damage investor perception, increase the cost of borrowing and make it more difficult for a business to obtain additional capital. In addition, loss of sensitive customer data can lead to fines and penalties for the business that fails to protect it.
The government is working hard to fight cybercrime. The Internet Crime Complaint Center, a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center, accepts complaints online from victims or interested third parties. The center then forwards the complaints to the appropriate federal, state and local law enforcement agency. This process helps to ensure that each complaint is properly investigated and prosecuted.