Internet Crime
Whether you use it to do your weekly food shop or keep in touch
with friends, the internet is fast becoming a key part of our
everyday lives.
Computer users of all ages are surfing the web, interacting with
new acquaintances and sharing information but as the popularity of
the internet continues to rise criminals are turning technology
into a tool for crime.
Internet crime is a loose term used to describe a range of
crimes committed online like computerised fraud, hacking and child
pornography. You might also have heard it called cyber crime or
e-crime.
Detecting internet crime
The global nature of the internet can make detecting sources of
crime online difficult but Essex Police has a team of computer
specialists working to do just that.
The hi-tech crime unit, based at headquarters, forms part of a
national network of agencies fighting online crime and the staff
are up to date with the latest changes in technology and computer
software.
Much of their work involves seizing evidence from computers and
the officers have the ability to find deleted information and
re-build it to find out what was done and how.
Our
PCSOs are also working
to reduce internet crime by visiting schools around the county to
make young people aware of its potential dangers.
On the next few pages you’ll find information on the main types
of internet crime and advice from our hi-tech crime officers on
what to do if you think you have experienced it.