What is a Computer Crime?
A computer crime (also called cybercrime) is an illegal activity that involves the use of computers or networks, either as a tool, target, or both.
In the context of Information Security, computer crime refers to any activity that compromises the confidentiality, integrity, or availability (CIA) of information systems.
Types of Computer Crimes
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Hacking | Gaining unauthorized access to computer systems |
| Phishing | Tricking users into revealing personal or financial information |
| Data Theft | Stealing sensitive or personal data for misuse |
| Denial of Service (DoS) | Attacks that disrupt the availability of services |
| Malware Attacks | Viruses, worms, ransomware used to damage or control systems |
| Cyber Terrorism | Attacks with the intent to cause disruption or panic |
| Online Fraud & Identity Theft | Using fake identities for financial gain |
Why Do Computer Crimes Happen?
| Cause | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Weak Security Systems | Poorly protected systems are easy targets |
| Lack of User Awareness | Users fall for scams or use weak passwords |
| Financial Motivation | Many cybercrimes are for money (ransomware, fraud) |
| Political / Personal Revenge | Hacktivism or revenge from insiders |
| Availability of Tools | Easy-to-use hacking tools are available online |
How Computer Crime Affects Information Security
Computer crimes often violate one or more of the CIA principles:
| Principle | Effect of Crime |
|---|---|
 Confidentiality | Data breaches, identity theft |
 Integrity | Modification of data, injection of malware |
 Availability | DoS attacks that crash websites or services |
Real-World Examples
1. WannaCry Ransomware (2017)
- Spread across 150+ countries
- Locked systems and demanded Bitcoin payment
- Exploited a Microsoft Windows vulnerability
- Affected hospitals, banks, businesses
2. Cosmos Bank Cyber Attack (India, 2018)
- Hackers stole ₹94 crore through malware in the bank’s server
- Funds withdrawn in 28 countries
- A classic case of financial cybercrime
3. OLX and Amazon Scams
- Fraudsters post fake listings, take money via UPI/Paytm, and disappear
- Rise in digital payment frauds in India
Diagram: Life Cycle of a Computer Crime
[ Hacker Plans Attack ]
↓
[ Scans Network for Weaknesses ]
↓
[ Gains Unauthorized Access ]
↓
[ Steals Data / Disrupts System / Demands Ransom ]
↓
[ Covers Tracks / Misuses Data ]
Legal Consequences in India
India’s legal system treats computer crimes seriously under:
Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act)
- Section 66: Hacking
- Section 66C: Identity theft
- Section 66D: Cheating by impersonation (phishing, fake calls)
- Section 67: Publishing obscene content
- Section 43: Unauthorized access or damage to computers
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
- For fraud, impersonation, theft, criminal conspiracy
DPDP Act, 2023
- Protects personal digital data
- Penalizes misuse or unauthorized sharing of data
How to Prevent Computer Crimes
| Practice | Description |
|---|---|
| Firewalls and Antivirus | Protects from malware and intrusions |
| Strong Passwords | Use multi-factor authentication |
| Awareness Training | Educate users to avoid phishing and fraud |
| Regular Software Updates | Fix known security flaws |
| Access Controls | Limit user access based on roles |
| Data Encryption | Secure sensitive data in storage and transit |
| Network Monitoring | Detect suspicious activity early |
Summary for Exam Answer
Computer crime refers to any illegal activity involving computers or networks, such as hacking, data theft, or cyber fraud. These crimes threaten data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Common types include phishing, ransomware, and online fraud. Laws like the IT Act, IPC, and DPDP Act in India deal with such crimes. Preventive measures include firewalls, user awareness, regular updates, and strong access control.