A Cyber Criminal is an individual or group who uses a computer, computer network, or networked device to commit or facilitate illegal activities. They are the perpetrators of cyber crime. They are motivated by a variety of factors, and often classified based on their skill level and their goal:
Type of Cyber Criminal
- Black Hat Hacker: Exploits security vulnerabilities to steal data, deploy ransomware, or crash systems.
- Script Kiddie: Uses pre-written or readily available attack tools and scripts (often malware or simple DDoS attacks) created by others.
- Cyber Terrorist or Hacktivist: Uses cyber attacks to disrupt critical infrastructure (e.g., power grids, financial systems) or deface/take down government or corporate websites to promote a cause.
- Insider Threat: A current or former employee who abuses legitimate network access to steal, leak or destroy company data.
- Scammers and Fraudsters: Uses social engineering techniques like phishing emails, fake websites, and online scams. They use these techniques to trick victims into giving up money or data.
- Organized Cyber Crime Groups: Highly skilled, structured, and well-funded criminal enterprises that treat cyber-crime as a business. These groups often have specializing in ransomware, banking fraud, and selling stolen data on the dark web.
In short, a Cyber Criminal is anyone who utilizes the digital world whether through advanced technical skills or simple deception to unlawfully acquire money, information, power, or to inflict damage or disruption.
