Future directions in technology-enabled crime : 2007-09

Research and public policy series no. 78

Kim-Kwang Raymond Choo, Russell G Smith and Rob McCusker
ISBN 978 1 921185 44 1 ISSN 1326-6004
Canberra: Australian Institute of Criminology, September 2007

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Abstract

The aim of this report was to identify the crime risks which will arise over the next two years (2007-09) out of the environment in which Australians use information and communications technologies. In identifying future risk areas, particular focus is placed on the impact these will have for law enforcement, the need for additional resources, law reform, development of cooperative arrangements between Australian and overseas public and private sector organisations, and development of public information and educational resources to minimise the risk of widespread harm to the community. The report begins by identifying developments that will take place over the next two years that will be likely to facilitate technology-enabled crime. These include: changes arising from globalisation of business and the emergence of new economies in China and India; developments in digitisation of information, especially relating to the widespread use of broadband services and mobile and wireless technologies; the evolution of electronic payment systems, especially those being used in connection with online gambling and auctions; and changes in the use governments make of technology to allow members of the public to conduct transactions with government agencies securely and even to aloe participation in democracy online. These, and other developments, create not only benefits for the community but also risks. This report identifies the most likely areas in which opportunities for illegality may arise including fraud, identity-related crime, computer vandalism, theft of information, dissemination of objectionable material online, and risks of organised crime and terrorism. The implications for these developments are then assessed in terms of their impact for policing, policy making and legislation.