Computer technology is a broad term that describes all that the computer encompasses.
It refers to the different types of computer hardware and software, and their specific functions; all of electronic media and its services, computer interfacing, programming and networking, analog and digital electronics and robotics, etc.
The emergence of computer technology over the years has simplified our daily lives and enhanced our learning process. No doubt computer technology is of great advantage, it has increased life expectancy. We now have quick access to information and it is a great source of entertainment.
It has improved productivity and efficiency and broken distance barriers. But it also has its disadvantages, of which one of them is cybercrime.
What is Cybercrime?
Cybercrime refers to any illegal behaviour or activity that involves the use of a computer, whether as a tool, a target, or a means to commit additional crimes. It includes actions, whether deliberate or not, that violate the law and are punished by the government.
Cybercriminals assault the very underpinnings of our contemporary information society by taking full advantage of the anonymity, confidentiality, and connectivity offered by the internet.
Forms of Cybercrime
Botnets, computer viruses, cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking, cyber-terrorism, cyber-pornography, DoS assaults, hacktivism, identity theft, malware, and spam are all examples of cybercrime.
When referring to criminal acts, including identity theft, fraud, security breaches, and child pornography, the phrase “cybercrime” or “cyber-related crime” is sometimes used (Finnie, Petee, and Jarvis 7). Many of these strategies make use of computers or networks, but many more only employ data found in text files on a computer’s hard drive as they connect to those computers.
Cybercrime Against People
1. Email-based harassment.
2. Internet stalking.
3. The spread of offensive content.
4. Discrediting.
5. Unauthorised access to/or control of a computer system.
6. Incorrigible exposure of Email spoofing, cheating, and fraud
Cybercrime Against Society
1. Pornography (mostly child pornography).
2. Trade in persons
3. Financial offences
4. Selling unlawful goods; and online gambling
5. Fraud
Cybercrime has a deteriorating impact or implication on its victims either as an individual or the society. It can lead to depression, social isolation, psychological or emotional harm, and even suicide. Additionally, the outcome of cybercrime results in loss of money, theft of personal and vital information, and spread of misinformation which damages the reputation of the victim.
Beyond individuals being exposed to cybercrime, businesses are attacked and this results in the loss of funds, intellectual property, and customer data, which can be costly to recover. Institutions and government organisations can be victims and this poses a serious threat to national security.
Prevention and Control of Cybercrime
The following are preventive measures to protect against cybercrimes;
1. Ensure the use of antivirus software and keep systems updated.
2. Use a strong password.
3. Use a secure internet connection.
4. Avoid clicking link pop-ups on emails.
5. Protect your identity online.
6. Manage your social media settings.
7. Educate/train yourself on cybersecurity.
The Internet’s utility has been demonstrated in countless and diverse ways, which should be sufficient to prevent it from turning into a haven for criminal activities.
From white-collar workers to terrorists, from kids to adults, everyone uses computers. The younger generations are more susceptible to targeted cybercrime because they rely more on the internet and other online technologies to stay connected.
Conclusion
As technology advances, cybercrime seems inevitable and this poses a great threat to individuals, businesses, and society at large. Therefore cybercrime awareness should be raised and preventive measures to curb this act should by all means be readily available to all.
Researched by Olamide Opebiyi
