Cybercrimes; a new breed of criminals emerges

In recent years, the art of investigations has changed dramatically, and only some of this is due to case law and federal and state laws that have been changed or revised. To a greater extent, there has been a new focus on specialized skills like crime scene investigation, interview and interrogation, financial investigation and the list goes on and on. The largest factor that has brought about a change in this field is the same as most others, and that is digital technology. This type of technology has made a drastic change in the world of investigations. Cameras, criminal data bases, information sharing, and record storage has all changed what we can do and how fast we can do it. For some, this world of technology has snuck up to us. I thought when I was younger that I was living in a world that would see the big change in technology. But with every day that passes I find that it is still changing and can be very hard to keep up with. Every time I have to ask one of my kids how to do something on some type of electronics, I am reminded that the next generation is becoming even more technologically driven and dependent.

Over the last couple of years it is becoming clearer that even though technology has helped in the investigations field, it has also brought about a new type of crime. From the first days of computers, we have had problems with cybercrimes. But with every advancement in technology, there is also an increase in the types of crimes we see. Each year we see an increases in crimes that would not have been possible years ago. Identity theft has been around for a while, but it has become even easier to steel someone's identity, and the crimes they can commit with that identity have also increased because most people have more information online, on their computer, or phone. There are apps that can be purchased for smart phones that makes a different phone number show up on a caller ID when you call someone. Programs that change someone's voice can be easily obtained. An online profile with a Facebook account, e-mail, phone number, address, and anything else you would need to look like a fine upstanding citizen from a computer screen can be set up in a matter of minutes.

There is a new generation of criminals emerging and they are not using pry-bars, ski masks, and guns to commit their crimes. They are sitting in their living rooms using their computers and the damage they can cause from virtually anywhere in the world can be just as tragic as any other crime. Good locks on your doors, lights, and burglar alarms are still a good idea and are very much needed, but do not forget that there could also be someone attempting to commit a crime over the phone or a computer. There are a few simple steps you can take to help protect yourself. Make sure you are keeping an eye on your children's online accounts. Contrary to what many people think, you CAN spy on your child! Check their calls, texts, and e-mails. Be cautious of messaging accounts like snapchat that are designed to erase the conversation. Know who they are talking to online. If you are un-sure of who someone is, do not let them talk to them. Look at what e-mail address you are opening before you open it, make sure you have a good virus protection program on your computer and never send money to anyone online if you are not 100% sure it is a reliable site. There is someone out there who is always looking to commit a crime using the same technology that we wrap our world in. Take safeguards and do not become the next cybercrimes victim.