Cybercriminal: What it is, what they do, and simple ways to stay safe

Cybercriminal

What it is

A cybercriminal is someone who commits crimes using computers or the internet—either as the weapon, the target, or both. Think data theft, online scams, and break-ins that happen through screens instead of doors.

What they do (common plays)

  • Data & identity theft: steal logins, personal info, or payment data to cash out later.

  • Online scams & fraud: fake stores, phishing emails, tech-support cons.

  • Malware campaigns: ransomware, keyloggers, info-stealers, botnets.

  • Denial-of-Service (DoS/DDoS): flood a site or app so it goes offline.

  • Cybervandalism: defacing sites, deleting data, or leaking content.

How they operate

  • Social engineering: trick people into clicking, paying, or sharing secrets.

  • Exploiting weak spots: unpatched apps, exposed remote access, reused passwords.

  • Dark-web markets: buy/sell stolen data, malware kits, and “hacking as a service.”

Protect yourself (quick basics)

  • Use strong, unique passwords + MFA everywhere you can.

  • Keep devices, browsers, and apps updated.

  • Be skeptical of links, attachments, and sudden “urgent” messages.

  • Back up important files offline; consider DNS filtering/AV.

  • Verify money or account changes out of band (call the sender).

    Glossary (A–Z)

    All A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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