Technology has brought forth many benefits and advancements. However, it still has its downsides. For instance, it has paved the way for the existence of many cyber crimes. These cyber crimes are currently growing in prevalence and sophistication. Also, the cost of preventing them is becoming high.
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of what cyber crimes are and the available types.
What are cyber crimes?
Cyber crimes are any criminal activities that involve a networked device, network, or computer. They require defense from attorneys like the Wilson Criminal Defense lawyers. These cyber crimes are done to;
- Make profits
- Damage computer devices
- Disable computer devices
- Spread malware
- Spread illegal information
- Spread images
Also, cybercrimes may target corporate data or private information for resale or theft.
Types of cybercrimes
There are different types of cybercrimes. Some of the most popular cyber crimes include the following;
Malware
Malware/malicious software is code created to interfere with the normal functioning of your computer, and it may include;
- Ransomware
- Spyware
- Adware
- Trojans
- Worms
- Viruses
These malicious software tend to target businesses, law enforcement agencies, local and state governments, schools, and hospitals. They often lure individuals to visit a website or click on an attachment, and then the malware infects computing devices with malicious software.
In addition, common malware may target individual users who hold personal records, photos, or information.
Software piracy
Software piracy involves the unauthorized use, distribution, and reproduction of software. It can be in the form of;
- Software reproduction
- Illegal downloads
- Counterfeited commercial products
- Violation of licensing agreements
Cryptojacking
Cryptojacking involves the use of scripts to mine cryptocurrencies without users’ consent. It mainly focuses on loading cryptocurrency mining software into the victims’ system or browser. Most crypto-jacking attacks depend on—Javascript code.
Another thing to note is that no malware is necessary for cryptojacking to take place. Why? Because loading the impacted page executes the mining code on your browser.
Social engineering
Social engineering involves the psychological manipulation that encourages individuals to divulge confidential information/perform specific actions. Cybercriminals may use social engineering for online fraud in several ways.
For instance, they can use online dating platforms to gain the trust of individuals and then ask for confidential information or money.
Identity theft
This type of cybercrime occurs when a person accesses a computer to steal a user’s personal information. It can also involve acts where a cybercriminal uses your computer to access your credit and banking cards.
Cybercriminals sell and buy identity data on darknet markets that offer;
- Financial accounts
- Video streaming services
- Webmail
- Video and audio streaming
- Online auction
Hacking
Hacking involves the deed of obtaining unauthorized access to data in a network or computer. It mainly focuses on exploiting the weaknesses of systems. Hackers can hack into your computer and steal;
- Government intelligence
- Cooperate secrets
- Personal information
Also, they may infiltrate networks and disrupt the operations of governments and companies.
Cyber Espionage
Cyber Espionage involves activities that destroy, modify, or gather data from the government or other organizations. Also, it may include using network-connected devices like –close-circuit TV cameras/webcams to spy on groups or individuals.
DDoS attacks
DDoS attacks/Distributed Denial of Service attacks are attacks where cybercriminals overwhelm a website or a network. This causes a crash or a slowdown of the system. In the recent Russian-Ukrainian war, DDosS was mainly used by Russia to delete computer data belonging to private entities and the government.
Phishing scams
Phishing scams involve frauds that aim to con people. They may include;
- Deceptive emails
- Website scams
- Misleading communication that ensures victims click on links to malicious downloads.
A typical example of a phishing scam is those emails that appear to be from financial institutions, household brands, or government agencies. But they are not from such institutions.
Credit card frauds
In credit card frauds, cybercriminals infiltrate a retailer’s system. Then, they get their banking or credit card information—which they sell in the darknet markets.
Final Remarks
As you can see from the above, there are several cyber crimes that are available in this digital world. So, if you are not careful with your computing systems, you can easily fall prey or become vulnerable to attacks.
