Role of Law Enforcement in Computer Crime and Computer Security (From Microcomputers in Criminal Justice, P 1-13, 1987, Joseph Waldron, et al - See NCJ-104468)

• NCJ Number: 104469
• Author(s): J Conser; L Carsone
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 13 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The roles and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in dealing with computer crime and computer security are outlined.

Abstract

Major components of society are growing increasingly dependent on computer technology. This dependency requires law enforcement to be capable of protecting the integrity of the machinery. In addition, the growing rate of computer literacy in the American workforce may lead to increasing levels of unauthorized access and use of computers, as well as theft and manipulation of data. Donn Parker's recent book, 'Fighting Computer Crime,' has identified seven types of computer criminals (Amateur, deranged, system hacker, career, organization, extreme advocate, and government). To respond to this crime, law enforcement personnel need to know basic computer concepts and terminology to permit proper identification, handling, marking, and preservation of evidence. Currently, reacting appropriately is hampered by four problems: lack of computer literacy, inadequate definitions of computer-related crime, legal requirements for evidence, and lack of reporting by victims. Law enforcement agencies need to develop their expertise, win public confidence, seek legislative authority for confidential relations with victims and potential victims, and develop a crime prevention capability for computer crime. Legislative reforms and societal efforts are also needed to respond to computer crime.