Blackwell Reference Online

Extract

Cybercrime refers to the commission of criminal acts that target computers, use computers as an instrumentality to traditional crimes, or transmit illegal information using computer networks. One continuing form of cybercrime targets computers. So-called hackers and crackers, through various means, gain access to closed computer networks in order to vandalize or otherwise damage databases or network software by introducing computer viruses or “denial of service” attacks. Denial of service refers to computer viruses or worms that create an overabundance of computer transactions, to the extent that entire systems will slow significantly or shut down completely. Cybercrime comes in many guises. The objective of many early cybercrimes involving computer intrusions was to destroy data or interrupt the flow of computerized services. As the cybercrime concept evolved, it began to include similar break-ins to protected computer networks, but instead of mischievous vandalism, theft and material gain were the motivation. Common cybercrimes now include the theft and subsequent sale or counterfeiting of debit and credit card numbers from the protected databases of private financial firms, as well as larceny involving intellectual property such as computer software, movies, digital videos, recorded music, or other items. The commission and camouflage of other traditional crimes such as child ... log in or subscribe to read full text