NCJ Number
176563
Date Published
1998
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews some of the most recent technological developments used by criminals in Australia and predicts future technological advances likely to be used by criminals, as well as ways to prevent their improper use.
Abstract
Weapons are used in varied offenses in Australia; their use has increased in recent years. Developments in gun manufacture have enhanced their power and range considerably. Replicas are also available to threaten individuals and perpetrate offenses. Other weapons developments include the use of syringes and electricity and the production of smaller and more deadly weapons for military use. Other technologies include transportation technologies, computer-based technologies, medical and scientific technologies, and the illegal use of surveillance devices and other crime control technologies. Control strategies generally seek to restrict the availability of the raw materials used to manufacture devices and weapons, to restrict the availability of the devices and weapons, or to restrict their possession and use by certain categories of individuals. Understanding how sophisticated offenders may use new technologies is arguably an essential first step in preventing technology-based crime; prevention is more effective than trying to restrict the availability and use of technologies for illegitimate purposes once they have become publicly available. Tables and 19 references