Look Both Ways

What Are the Risks?

Online or cybercriminals commit the same kinds of crimes as other criminals, but using the Internet. Cybercrimes include identity theft, harassment, stalking and assault. Since more than two billion people have Internet access, including 21 million children in the U.S. alone, cybercriminals have lots of opportunities. Children between the ages of 12 and 17 have a one-in-five chance of being sexually solicited online. Pornography comprises 12% of Web sites and 25% of search-engine requests.

Cybercrime happens in three steps. First, criminals choose a target or objective, such as stealing an identity or sexually exploiting a teenager. Second, they figure out how to obtain their objective, for example, by sifting through their target’s messages to find references to new possessions or by gaining the confidence of their victim. Finally, they strike.

Take the following 13 steps to protect yourself online:

Step 1: “Be Careful What You Show People”

Photos give away information. For example, a picture of you with your new car can reveal what you look like, where you live and your socioeconomic status. Before you post a photo, examine...