I would like to discuss on a very stimulating topic i.e. Cyber Crime, or in other terms the crime committed by means of computers over internet. The illicit use of computer to promote fraudulent activities like child pornography, stealing personal identifiable information or violating policies of any association, all such actions can be categorized under Cyber Crime. Most of the misconducts are triggered via Internet and its study has gained importance in recent decades, because the use of internet is seen in every sector of society like business, entertainment, medical services, sports, media industry.
Definition:
Maximum of the law-breaking cyber-criminal crooks target information that are owned by any individuals, corporations or governments. These attacks never exist in any physical form; it always takes place in virtual form. One of the major aspects of these crimes is that it can be easily committed from a remote distance in a matter of seconds and it becomes very difficult to trace evidence or punish criminals because it might require global co-operation. With the advancement of various technologies criminals can easily hide their identity physically or virtually over the internet which sometimes becomes very challenging to locate.
Different forms of Cyber Crimes:
Hacking: It is a form of crime in which criminal’s access personal or sensitive information stored in systems database belonging to any individual or organization from a remote location. The actual owner may not be aware that his confidential information is being accessed by other person. The criminals mostly use special software for such activity.
Copyright Violation: It generally takes place when someone publishes articles or content which is owned by some other people. Some others forms of illegal activity which comes under copyright infringement are downloading pirated music, movies, games and software.
Cyber Stalking: It is a form of online harassment wherein the prey or target is tortured by a series of online messages, emails.
Phishing: It is one of the major forms of cyber-crime and the people who are mostly affected is individuals who are using internet as a medium for cash transactions and other banking related services.
The criminal attempts to acquire sensitive information like username, password and credit card details to withdraw money or to purchase stuffs online illicitly.
Malicious Software: It is also known as Malware which is basically a computer code and once it runs successfully; it can give partial or full control to your computer and the criminals can easily access any sensitive information or can damage your data.
Child abuse: This is also one of the major forms of cyber-crimes wherein criminals forces minors via chat or emails for any adult or pornographic act
Preventative measures of cyber-crime:
It is a phenomenal task to tackle with cyber-crime. However, I would like to highlight few tips to my friends which they should always follow.
Strong Password: Always use altered ID/password for various accounts that you own and never make mistake of writing it down physically over a piece of paper. You should always change your password regularly and make sure your device is fully protected and secured.
Use Social media sites cautiously: Be sensible while posting anything on social media sites. Once, the content is live on internet, it stays there forever!
Protect your personal identifiable information: Be careful while revealing any personal information such as name, address, phone number or financial information over the internet. Always prefer secure website for online transactions.
Avoid being scammed: Think multiple times before you click any link which asks you for any personal information. Please verify the source, and never reply to such fraudulent emails.
Call the right person for help: Never Panic! In case you are duped or come across illegal online content or suspect any fraudulent activity like commercial spam. Please report to your local police or if you need to secure your computer system, try to consult certified computer professional.
