JON'S CELL: The classifications for cyber crimes are vast and ever growing. One college student’s prank to pass along messages to every computer screen or printer on campus is another student’s internet and/or computer crime. Most crimes involving the internet require some form malicious intent. Below are three examples of cyber crimes that a quite common and continue to grow, especially with the consistent rise of social media.
Ransomeware: Everyone is familiar with standard malware-the type that randomly infects a computer and wreaks havoc by bogging down the system or bombarding the user with pop-ups that never cease. Ransomeware is essentially malware. It infects the system to completely lock out the user unless they pay a ransom to gain access. Often, the targets are schools, hospitals, small and large businesses, governments and law enforcement agencies.
Identify Theft: Identify theft is the process of obtaining personal information in order to commit fraud by claiming to be that person or using their data to make purchases or drain bank accounts. How the information is obtained ranges from internet, email or phone scams to skimmers at the ATM.
Electronic Harassment: Yes, Facebook stalking, harassing or general bulling over the internet can be considered a cyber crime if its intended purpose is to threaten, abuse or annoy the other person.
The FBI keeps a close watch on large and small threats; however, the Wisconsin Department of Justice has their own specialized unit that investigates more localized internet crimes, including those committed against children, which often take place on social media sites.
A cyber crime charge is very serious. It’s important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney about your rights-someone who is straight forward, compassionate and who will give you the personal attention you need throughout the course of your case.
