Computer Crime - The Little Known Ways That You Can Be a Victim

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Computer Crime - The Little Known Ways that You Can Be a Victim

What is computer crime? The advancement of technology also has it's downsides. Computers are so common these days that people often forget that computer crime exists. But it is a serious and growing problem. Find out about some of the different types of computer crime.

Computer crime is any crime that takes place because of the use of a computer. With rapid advancements in computer technology occurring on a daily basis, the possibilities for crimes perpetrated through computers increases as well. Also called cyber crime or electronic crime, a computer is not just used as a location for the crime but also the means in which it is performed.

Other more commonplace crimes take on the added dimension of being done through the computer or a network, including fraud, embezzlement and bribery. Computer crime encompasses a broad range of operations that can be done alone or together to complete the violation or illegal act. Examples of these would be data interference, illegal interception and misuse of information.

Computer Crime - Common Misdeeds

Among the many kinds of computer crime, one example is harassment. These usually occur on public arenas on the internet such as chat rooms or bulletin boards where anyone can be given access and freedom of speech. In some cases, the information that is posted or shared through these methods may be false and unfounded. When this happens, the usual case against slander or libel may be taken to court as long as proper documentary evidence can be presented.

Another kind of computer crime would be drug trafficking. The Internet is actually used as a means of communication between drug traffickers, including buying or selling of the goods and arranging meetings. It has been difficult for the proper authorities to keep close tabs on drug trafficking done over the Internet since they have taken to using codes and encryption to prevent discovery of the crime. At the same time, the information often travels over short distances and responses can be provided with lighting speeds. Because of this, the authorities have had little time and success to intercept anything illegal before it occurs.

Internet fraud is a more common type of computer crime. This is the one crime that people used to making online purchases should look out for. There are many ways in which information can be altered, modified or deleted for adverse purposes and it may take awhile before discoveries are made. Banking systems and credit card numbers can be the targets of Internet fraud, as everything can be done electronically without the victim ever finding out until it is too late.

The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act is the government code that was set in place to prevent fraudulent activities done over computer networks, accurately defining what constitutes a real violation. Information from financial institutions, United States government agencies and offices and any other privately owned company with a restricted network are all governed by this same act. Anyone who is found guilty of these crimes may be subject to imprisonment or fines, depending on the gravity of the case. A civil action case may be brought against anyone found guilty under the charges outlined in the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. If you are a victim of computer crime, then you should fight for your rights and claim the damages that are owed to you.