What is cybercrime?
There are two main types. Hacking is when a computer-user breaks into the systems of an organisation and accesses confidential systems and data. A computer virus accesses systems and can destroy or manipulate them. Who are cybercriminals?
Those who write viruses or hack tend to be young computer-users. They often pride themselves on their ability to break through security systems of major corporations.
What can hackers do?
A professional hacker is dangerous and difficult to combat. They are expert at finding holes in security systems and exploiting weaknesses in software. Once inside a system they can remove data or change a website.
The majority of hackers are "script kiddies" who follow hacking tool kits on the Internet. They tend to be a nuisance rather than a serious problem for larger corporations.
What is cyberextortion
A recent phenomenon among cybercriminals is to demand cash from organisations for "advice" after hacking systems.
What are the penalties and rewards?
In the Republic, cybercriminals face either a £1,000 fine and/or 12 months' imprisonment for a summary conviction or £10,000 and/or 10 years on indictment.However, many cybercriminals have landed contracts with corporations.