What is cybercrime?

Computer-related crimes, also known as cybercrime or telematic crimes, are crimes committed using information and communication technologies (ICT) as a means of execution. These crimes can take different forms and have different objectives, and can be committed by individuals or criminal organisations. All of this is covered by criminal law.

Cybercrime is a growing problem worldwide, and is becoming increasingly sophisticated and complex. This is partly due to the fact that technology is constantly advancing, which means that cybercriminals have access to ever more powerful tools to carry out their criminal actions.

In addition, cybercrime can have a significant impact on individuals, businesses and governments. Businesses can lose confidential information and trade secrets, and citizens can suffer identity theft and other types of fraud. Governments can be affected by the loss of confidential information, the sabotage of critical systems, and the conduct of terrorist or espionage activities.

To tackle cybercrime, many countries have implemented specific laws and regulations to address this problem. These laws establish punishments and sanctions for cybercrime and provide tools for the investigation and prosecution of offenders. In addition, businesses and individuals should also take steps to protect themselves from cybercrime, such as using strong passwords, regularly updating security software and backing up important information.

Types of cybercrime

The most common types of computer crime include:

• Illegal access to computer systems: when an individual or group accesses computer systems without authorisation in order to obtain information, make modifications or cause damage.
• Computer sabotage: when actions are taken that cause damage to computer systems, such as altering, destroying or deleting data.
• E-fraud: when technology is used to commit fraud, such as phishing, phishing or malware.
• Online harassment: when social networks or electronic media are used to harass, intimidate or threaten others.
• Child pornography: when technology is used to produce, distribute or consume pornographic material involving minors.
• Online extortion: when technology is used to threaten individuals or companies with revealing compromising information or damaging their reputation.
• Intellectual property crime: when technologies are used to infringe intellectual property rights, such as software piracy or illegal distribution of copyrighted content.
• Industrial espionage: when technology is used to obtain confidential or secret information from companies or institutions.
• Terrorism and radicalisation: when technology is used to recruit, spread propaganda or plan terrorist activities.

How to report cybercrime

If you have been a victim of cybercrime, it is important that you report it to the relevant authorities. Below, I will explain the steps you need to follow to report a computer-related crime:

1. Preserve evidence: It is important that you keep all information and evidence related to the crime. This may include emails, text messages, screenshots, files or any other evidence you may have.
2. Seek information about the crime: If you are not sure what crime has been committed, research the different forms of cybercrime and try to identify which one fits what has happened.
3. Go to the relevant authority: You should go to the nearest police or police court to file a complaint. If you do not know where to go, you can ask at the nearest police station or look for information online.
4. File a report: When you go to the competent authority, you should file a written report. It is important that you explain the facts in detail, providing all the evidence you have. You should also provide your personal details and any relevant information you may have about the perpetrator.
5. Follow the instructions: The competent authority will provide you with instructions to follow. You may be asked to provide further information or to make a statement. It is important that you follow the instructions carefully in order to cooperate with the investigation.
6. Cooperate with the investigation: If the competent authority asks you to cooperate with the investigation, it is important that you do so. You may be asked to provide more information or to appear in court. By cooperating with the investigation, you will be helping to ensure that justice is done.
7. Maintain confidentiality: It is important that you keep the information you provide confidential. You should not talk to third parties about the details of the case, as this could jeopardise the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

In conclusion, if you have been a victim of cybercrime, it is important that you report the incident to the relevant authorities so that you can assist in the investigation and help ensure that justice is done. By following these steps, you can make an effective report and contribute to the fight against cybercrime.