Digital Security

Types of Cybercrime

Cybercrime is defined as virtual (on a computer, via the internet, in a closed work network, home network or any other network) violations. The essence of cybercrime is stealing personal information such as bank account details, (Rivera).

Types of cybercrime include:

• Hacking – gaining unauthorised entry to a specific location on a server (network or database) or personal computer.
• Identity theft – When cyber criminals obtain enough information about an individual’s identity in order to present themselves convincingly as that individual, (www.actionfraud.police.uk).
• Internet fraud – Internet fraud is traditional fraud conducted through the internet. Previously conducted by normal mail and telephonically, (www.fraud.org).
• Phising scams – Emails and messages aimed at stealing money from individuals. The email or message contains malicious software that contain malicious software that is installed on a personal computer, once the message is opened, (www.microsoft.com).
• Hate crimes – Any form of hatred focussed on race, religion, sexual orientation or any other identifiable attribute, communicated via the internet.
• Spamming – Sending unsolicited emails or messages to large numbers of users, without their consent, (Joseph, 2006).
• Piracy – reproducing and distributing software applications, movies, games and audio CD’s illegally, (Joseph, 2006).

Each country or region has their own laws applicable to behaviour of individuals or groups using the internet.

How to steer clear of Cybercrime

According to Norton, cybercrime can be avoided or reduced by doing the following:

• Ensure that you have security software installed.
• Ensure that your antivirus and intrusion detection and prevention software is up to date.
• Ensure that your computer is configured correctly.
• Ensure that you select strong passwords (make use of capital and small case letters, use numeric and special characters).
• Protect your personal information by not completing personal details unless the source is trusted.
• Do not be misled by unbelievable internet offers, as they are usually too good to be true.
• Ensure that you review your bank and credit card statements regularly.