Cyber Crime

What is Cyber Crime

Cybercrime is when someone uses computers, phones, or the internet to commit crimes. It includes many different kinds of illegal activity, such as online scams, stealing someone’s identity, sextortion (threatening to share sexual images), doxxing (sharing private information without permission), cyberstalking, hacking into accounts, online harassment, pretending to be someone else, and sharing sexual or private images without consent. People who are targeted by cybercrime may be pressured to stay silent through threats or blackmail. Some are tricked into giving money or personal information through fake emails, phishing schemes, fake job offers, or online romance scams.

Cybercrime can also lead to further abuse or exploitation. For example, abusers may use social media, chat apps, or other online platforms to groom, recruit, or control victims. These online threats can make people feel unsafe, trapped, or unsure where to turn for help.

Victims May Be Feeling or Experiencing

A wide range of emotions

People affected by cybercrime may feel worried, frustrated, confused, embarrassed, or powerless. They might also feel stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do next. Some may experience a mix of emotions or feel uncertain about how to respond.

Practical and daily-life impacts

Cybercrime can affect everyday life. Victims may feel distracted, have trouble concentrating on work or school, or spend extra time checking accounts and devices. They might also feel unsafe online or hesitant to use certain websites or apps.

Psychological distress

Victims may feel anxious, tense, or constantly on edge. They might replay events in their mind, feel uneasy about digital security, or worry that it will happen again. This stress can make it harder to focus, sleep, or relax.

Feelings of isolation and caution

People may withdraw from online interactions, limit sharing information, or avoid digital spaces where the incident happened. They might feel alone in dealing with the situation and unsure who to turn to for support.

Self-doubt and worry

Victims may question whether they should have done something differently, feel unsure about their online decisions, or worry about making mistakes in the future. This is a natural reaction, even though the responsibility lies with the person committing the cybercrime.

Resources & Support

Help is available. You don’t have to face this alone.

Nationwide

Statewide

County Resources

Sacramento County

San Francisco County

Santa Clara County

Know Your Rights

Your rights related to cyber crime include

To report online threats, harassment, scams, hacking, or identity theft to law enforcement. Cyber crimes are real crimes, and you deserve protection.
To block and report people who are bullying, stalking, or threatening you online. You can also take screenshots or save messages as evidence.
The right to privacy. No one is allowed to access your personal accounts, photos, or messages without your permission.
To ask websites and platforms to remove harmful content, including images or private information you did not agree to have posted or shared.
To report financial scams or fraud to your bank and to government agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

To freeze your credit or take steps to protect your identity if someone steals your personal information.
To access help, even if you’re not sure who’s behind the attack. Cyber crime units, victim advocates, and tech support resources can help you respond safely.
To receive mental health support if you’ve experienced online abuse, blackmail, or harassment.
To be taken seriously. If someone is using technology to hurt or control you, it is not your fault, and there are laws that protect you.

Sources

California Attorney General – Cyber Safety

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)

Federal Trade Commission – Identity Theft

Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative

U.S. Department of Justice

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children