Internet-related crime occurs every minute. Cybercriminals steal millions of dollars with near impunity. For everyone that is captured nearly 10,000 or not captured. For everyone successful prosecuted in a court of law, 100 get off without punishment or with a warning. Why is it so difficult to prosecute cybercriminals?

Total References – four (4). Use the references (materials attached) and 2 other scholarly references you choose (they should not be over five years old).

References

Bayard, E.E. (2019). THE RISE OF CYBERCRIME AND THE NEED FOR STATE

CYBERSECURITY REGULATIONS. Rutgers Computer & Technology Law Journal, 45(2), 69–.

Burger, M., Smith, L.M., & Wood, J. (2020). RECENT CYBERCRIMES AND

CYBERSECURITY STRATEGIES. Internal Auditing, 35(1), 12–19.

Introduction:

Cybercrime has increased in recent years, with cybercriminals using new methods to steal sensitive information and extort money from individuals and organizations. Despite the prevalence of cybercrime, the number of successful prosecutions remains low. This essay examines why it is difficult to prosecute cybercriminals.

Difficulty in Attribution:

One of the main challenges in prosecuting cybercriminals is attribution. Cybercriminals often use sophisticated techniques to cover their tracks and conceal their identities. In some cases, they may use virtual private networks (VPNs) or proxies to mask their IP addresses, making it difficult for law enforcement to track them down (Bayard, 2019). Additionally, cybercriminals may launch attacks from compromised computers belonging to innocent third parties, making it challenging to identify the true culprit.

Jurisdictional Issues:

Another challenge in prosecuting cybercriminals is jurisdictional issues. Cybercriminals can launch attacks from anywhere in the world, making it challenging to determine which country has jurisdiction to prosecute the offender. In many cases, cybercriminals operate in countries with weak cyber laws, making it difficult to bring them to justice (Burger et al., 2020).

Technical Complexity:

Cybercrime investigations often require specialized technical expertise, which may not be available to law enforcement agencies. Cybercriminals may use advanced hacking tools and encryption methods to carry out their attacks, which can be difficult to decrypt and trace (Bayard, 2019). Additionally, cybercriminals may use the dark web or encrypted messaging apps to communicate with each other, making it challenging to monitor their activities.

Legal Challenges:

Another challenge in prosecuting cybercriminals is the lack of clear legal frameworks. Cybercrime laws vary from country to country, and some countries may not have specific laws governing cybercrime (Burger et al., 2020). Additionally, the legal process can be slow, and it may take years to bring a cybercriminal to justice.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, prosecuting cybercriminals is challenging due to several factors, including difficulty in attribution, jurisdictional issues, technical complexity, and legal challenges. Law enforcement agencies must work together to overcome these challenges and develop new strategies to combat cybercrime. Additionally, governments must enact strong cybersecurity laws and regulations to deter cybercriminals and protect citizens from the harm caused by cybercrime.

References:

Bayard, E.E. (2019). THE RISE OF CYBERCRIME AND THE NEED FOR STATE CYBERSECURITY REGULATIONS. Rutgers Computer & Technology Law Journal, 45(2), 69–.

Burger, M., Smith, L.M., & Wood, J. (2020). RECENT CYBERCRIMES AND CYBERSECURITY STRATEGIES. Internal Auditing, 35(1), 12–19.

Mapp, L. (2018). Understanding cybercrime: phenomena, challenges and legal response. Springer.

Wall, D. S., & Williams, M. L. (2017). Policing cybercrime and cyberterrorism. Routledge.

Vijayalakshmi, M. (2018). Cybercrime and society. CRC Press.