INTRODUCTION

The dominance and rapid growth of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems have made cybercrime and cyberattacks an attractive and effective weapon to be used against a nation. This is due to their lower cost compared to the expenses required for the development, maintenance, and use of advanced military capabilities. With minimal effort, agents or spies can be recruited, false information can be created, data can be manipulated, or malicious code can be launched on an information system connected through a globally shared telecommunications infrastructure.

Cybercrime is the new computer-based crime of this century. It includes elements such as fraud, damage or modification of computer programs or data, information theft, hacking, and more. The emergence of the Internet as a modern communication tool promises a platform for the dissemination of information, enhancing knowledge and access to information. However, because no one can fully control the flow of information in cyberspace, millions of websites have been created, sharing a wide range of content—whether true or false—along with ideas, ideologies, propaganda, and even pornography.

At the same time, the freedom of information promised by cyberspace creates concern for the administrations of some countries that have long sought to suppress freedom of speech, thought, and opinion among their populations.

TYPE OF CYBERCRIME:

Cybercrime encompasses various activities involving the use of technology for illegal purposes. These activities include fraud, sabotage, and the theft of information through computer systems, which are becoming increasingly alarming in a world that is more reliant on technology.

1. Computer Fraud

Cybercrime through computer fraud refers to actions where technology is used to deceive individuals or organizations for personal gain. A common example includes financial fraud, such as phishing schemes that trick users into providing their banking details, as well as the theft of personal data, which can be sold to third parties. Just like Gordon Gekko’s famous line from the movie Wall Street (1987), “Greed, for lack of a better word, is good,” computer fraud is often driven by greed, where cybercriminals seek financial gain through unlawful means.

Gordon Gekko’s Famous Line

2. Modification of Programs or Data

In this case, cybercriminals alter or manipulate data or programs to cause negative effects on an organization’s operations or infrastructure. This could involve changing key information in databases or corrupting software systems, potentially causing significant damage to productivity, trust, or financial stability. For example, a virus or malware might be used to modify files, disrupt communication, or even disable entire systems, leading to major operational and financial losses.

3.  Malware Attacks

Malware, or malicious software, is designed to infiltrate and damage a computer system without the user’s consent. This category includes viruses, worms, Trojans, and ransomware. Malware can be used to corrupt data, monitor user activity, steal sensitive information, or hold a system hostage until a ransom is paid. Ransomware attacks, in particular, have been rising, where cybercriminals encrypt a victim’s files and demand payment to restore access.

4. Phishing

Phishing is a technique used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into providing sensitive personal or financial information by pretending to be a legitimate entity. These scams usually come in the form of fake emails, websites, or text messages that look authentic but are designed to steal information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and social security numbers. Victims often believe they are interacting with a trusted source.

5. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks

A Denial of Service attack occurs when cybercriminals flood a target system, such as a website or server, with overwhelming amounts of traffic, causing it to slow down or crash. The goal is to disrupt the services provided by the target, often leading to financial loss and reputational damage for businesses. In more severe cases, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks use multiple compromised systems to launch an even larger-scale attack.

6. Cybercrime through Cyberstalking

Cybercrime through cyberstalking involves the use of the internet or other digital means to stalk or harass an individual, group, or organization. This form of harassment can take many shapes, such as sending threatening emails, tracking someone’s online activities, or spreading false information. Cyberstalking can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on the victim, and it often escalates if not addressed.

7. Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when a cybercriminal obtains and uses someone’s personal information, such as their name, social security number, or credit card details, without permission. This stolen information can be used for financial gain, such as making purchases, taking out loans, or committing other crimes under the victim’s identity. The effects of identity theft can be devastating and long-lasting for the victim.

8. Online Scams

Online scams are fraudulent schemes conducted via the internet. These can take many forms, from fake lotteries, charity scams, or “get-rich-quick” schemes. Scammers often prey on people’s emotions or vulnerabilities to steal money or sensitive information. They typically promise large rewards in exchange for personal details or a small “investment” from the victim.

9. Espionage and Data Breaches

Corporate espionage and data breaches involve stealing confidential information from businesses or governments. Hackers often target companies to steal proprietary data, trade secrets, or even customer information. These attacks can be financially motivated, politically driven, or done to give the perpetrator a competitive advantage in business.

10. Child Exploitation and Pornography

Cybercriminals often use the internet to exploit children by engaging in activities such as creating, distributing, or possessing child pornography. The anonymity provided by the internet makes it easier for predators to exploit minors online, through illegal material or by luring them into dangerous situations.