Cyber Crimes and Its Types

Cybercrime and Its Types

Cybercrime refers to crimes committed using computers, mobile phones, or the internet. It includes activities such as stealing data, cheating people online, or damaging computer systems. The main aim of cybercriminals can be to make money, harm others, or obtain secret information. With the increasing use of technology, cybercrime has become one of the biggest threats to individuals, businesses, and governments.

1. Malware

Malicious software such as viruses, worms, or spyware that harm computer systems or steal information from users.

2. Phishing

Fake emails or text messages used to trick people into revealing sensitive information such as passwords, ATM pins, or bank account details.

3. Ransomware

Software that locks your computer or encrypts files and demands money (ransom) to unlock them.

4. Cyberstalking

Using the internet or social media platforms to continuously harass, threaten, or follow a person online.

5. Data Breaches

Unauthorized access to an organization’s or individual's confidential data, often resulting in data leaks or financial loss.

6. Social Engineering

Manipulating people into revealing confidential information by pretending to be a trusted person or authority.

7. Cyber Espionage

Secretly stealing government or corporate data for intelligence, political, or business advantage.

8. Financial Fraud

Cheating people through fake websites, investment scams, or unauthorized online transactions to gain money.

9. Identity Theft

Stealing someone’s personal details such as Aadhaar number, PAN, or bank information to commit fraud or impersonation.

10. Hacking

Unauthorized access to computer systems or networks with the intent to steal, destroy, or alter data.

11. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks

Flooding a website or network with excessive traffic, making it slow or completely unavailable for genuine users.