NCJ Number
186125
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 69 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2000 Pages: 7-11
Editor(s)
John E. Ott
Date Published
2000
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Recent computer-related incidents illustrate the types of computer crimes committed by young people that have become commonplace in a technologically advanced society, and factors contributing to computer crimes and law enforcement considerations are examined.
Abstract
Several factors contribute to the commission of computer crimes by young people. In particular, young people have more technological knowledge than any previous generation, they have grown up with the personal computer and the Internet, and they can readily conceive of the potential for both legitimate and illegitimate computer uses. Further, some evidence points to an apparent ethical deficit in some young people; for example, a 1997 study of undergraduate college students indicated that a substantial number had pirated software and that young people involved in computer crimes appeared to learn this behavior through interaction with their peers. Of additional note, computers themselves have facilitated the commission of computer crimes by young people. Specifically, computer use over the Internet can conceal age and provide a degree of anonymity that did not previously exist. In dealing with computer-related delinquency, police officers should follow proper procedures with respect to rules of evidence and computer crime prevention. Direct and indirect costs of computer-related delinquency are discussed. 14 endnotes and 1 photograph