According to TRAC, white collar crimes made up 38% of the cases prosecuted at the federal level in 2022. And it is likely a growing number of those cases involved defendants who made use of technology to commit the crimes.
Advancements in technology have impacted white collar crimes and what they look like these days. The use of computers and the internet allow for more sophistication in the crimes, making this tricker for law enforcement to uncover and prosecute.
Cybercrime
Cybercriminals employ sophisticated techniques to breach computer systems, steal sensitive information and commit fraud. These crimes typically occur remotely and anonymously. They may include a range of activities, including identity theft and hacking.
Identity theft
Identity theft, another consequence of technological progress, has become more prevalent due to the increasing amount of personal information available online. It is much easier to now access and manipulate personal data. Digital platforms and transactions make this crime more challenging to combat.
Hacking
Hackers use their technical prowess to infiltrate systems, compromise data and sometimes even hold critical information hostage for ransom. The scale of these attacks can range from individual targets to large organizations, highlighting the potential for immense financial repercussions.
While digital technology has empowered criminals, it has also provided law enforcement agencies with tools to combat these offenses. Forensic experts now sift through digital footprints, tracing the origin of cybercrimes and identifying culprits. However, the ever-evolving nature of technology means that law enforcement faces a constant challenge to keep up with the tactics of tech-savvy criminals.