What is cyber crime?
What is Cyber Crime?
Cyber crime is any illegal activity carried out using computers, mobile devices, networks, or the internet. It either targets digital systems and data, or uses them as tools to commit offenses such as theft, fraud, harassment, or disruption of services.
Short, Exam-Friendly Definition
Cyber crime is the unlawful use of digital devices and networks to access, damage, steal, defraud, or harass, in violation of applicable cyber laws.
Key Features of Cyber Crime
- Involves computers, networks, or online platforms
- Can target data, privacy, money, reputation, or services
- Often anonymous, cross-border, and scalable
- Prosecuted under specific cyber laws and IT regulations
Types and Examples
- Unauthorized access (hacking): Breaking into accounts or systems
- Malware attacks: Viruses, worms, spyware, trojans, ransomware
- Phishing and social engineering: Tricking users to reveal passwords or OTPs
- Identity theft: Using someone’s personal data for fraud
- Online financial fraud: Carding, UPI scams, fake shopping portals
- Cyberstalking and online harassment: Threats, defamation, doxxing
- Denial-of-Service (DoS/DDoS): Flooding a service to make it unavailable
- Intellectual property piracy: Illegal copying/distribution of software, music, movies
How Cyber Crime is Classified
- Computer as the target: Attacks on systems, networks, or data (e.g., DDoS)
- Computer as the tool: Using devices to commit traditional crimes online (e.g., fraud)
- Computer as incidental: Device stores evidence of an offline crime
Why It Matters
- Leads to financial losses and data breaches
- Violates privacy and damages reputation
- Threatens business continuity and critical infrastructure
Legal Perspective (Overview)
- Governed by cyber laws and IT Acts that define offenses and penalties
- Punishments include fines, imprisonment, or both
- Digital evidence (logs, emails, metadata) is crucial for investigation