High+Tech+Crime

The important element of computer crime is intrusion or a system attack. One of the most common computer crime is hacking. For a computer related crime a computer is used as a means to facilitate a traditional crime. One of the most common computer related crimes is fraud. A technology crime is when a technology other than computers is used to facilitate a crime, or is the subject of the offense; or, a crime that involves the theft of computer hardware and software. A technology crime could be cellular telephone fraud or software piracy. Much of hi-tech crime goes unreported. It could be unreported because victims are unwilling to come forward, because it is mis-classified by law enforcement personnel or because it goes undiscovered. Whatever the reason for the under-reported nature of computer crime the effect could be that not enough resources are allocated to the problem. Key features of the Internet have facilitated an explosion in certain types of crime. The Internet can provide the offender anonymity. The fact that the offender may remain anonymous removes some of the barriers to criminal activity that we explored in rational choice theory. If you don't think you will be caught, the potential cost is less and therefore the benefit of committing the crime is greater. The Internet also enables offenders to which a huge pool of potential victims. There are millions of users. Additionally, the open nature of Internet protocols make system intrusion or attack easier for offenders. The final aspect we will explore is searching and seizing computer evidence. There are two critical points to remember with computer evidence. First, the search and seizure of computers is not much different than the search and seizure of other personal property. Secondly, searching for computer evidence is a complex forensic science. As such, state and local police officers should seek expert advice whenever dealing with computer and computer related evidence.
 * Hi-Tech Crime**