It can be difficult to rank motives for cybercrime as each individual’s motives are unique and subjective. This list is based off of examples that were discussed in class and the motives are ranked from most to least sensible.
- Monetary: I feel that this is the most sensible motive for cybercrime as it involves financial gain. It is not uncommon for cybercriminals to attempt to steal personal information, credentials, or financial information with the intent to commit fraud or to sell on the dark web.
- Political: Cybercrime committed for political motives may be seen as somewhat sensible depending on the political agenda involved. Hacktivists may target government agencies or private entities to expose corruption or blow the whistle on a particular issue.
- Revenge: I feel that revenge may also be seen as a somewhat sensible motive for cybercrime in certain circumstances. I can see this being the case in situations where an individual will seek retribution for a perceived wrong or injustice committed against themselves or an associate.
- Recognition: This motive can be seen as less sensible as cybercrime committed for recognition or to gain notoriety is often driven by ego and a desire for attention rather than a concrete motive.
- Entertainment: Cybercrimes committed for this purpose can be seen as senseless or irrational as it does not involve any tangible goal beyond the thrill of the crime.
- Boredom: Cybercrime committed out of boredom can also be seen as senseless or irrational as it does not involve any real motive or goal beyond not being bored.
- Multitude of Reasons: This category is broad and encompasses many different varieties of motivations for cybercrime. Therefore, it is difficult to rank this motive as it may contain a mix of various motives, sensible or not.