The Internet is amazing. It brings long-lost friends together and provides the best research tool in the world. It has made shopping easier, not just by delivering products to your doorsteps after a few mouse clicks.
But the Internet can also be compared to a lawless land sometimes. Sure, there are laws but many cyber criminals go unpunished, safe behind their Dell's or Mac's.
Women are especially vulnerable as most scammy Internet products online target women.
Online stalkers are sadly also not uncommon and the Internet provides a place where violation of privacy occur.
How can women fight back and report Internet crime?
File an online complaint through the IC3 at http://www.ic3.gov.
IC3 is a joint project of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Internet crime is described by the IC3 as:
"...Any illegal activity involving one or more components of the Internet, such as websites, chat rooms, and/or email. Internet crime involves
the use of the Internet to communicate false or fraudulent representations to consumers. These crimes may include, but are not limited to, advance-fee schemes, non-delivery of goods or services, computer hacking, or employment/business opportunity schemes."
After you have filed your complaint through the site, the IC3 will assign an analyst to your case. It is best to be as specific as possible when filling up the online form.
Include:
* Name/s of the person or business who wronged you
* Time and date of incident
* Your complete contact information
* Specifics relating to the crime
* Include email addresses and website links when applicable
You will also receive an email with a PDF file of your complaint. You may edit or add details to your complaint anytime.
Include:
* Name/s of the person or business who wronged you
* Time and date of incident
* Your complete contact information
* Specifics relating to the crime
* Include email addresses and website links when applicable
What happens after you file a complaint? The IC3 will assign an analyst to your case and then the appropriate law enforcers will be contacted and given the details of your case when the analyst finds your complaint to be legitimate. That's why it is important to include your contact information. The authorities such as your state or local police may need to contact you.
You will also receive an email with a PDF file of your complaint. You may edit or add details to your complaint anytime.
Don't be an apathetic victim. If you find yourself a victim of Internet crime, fight back!
