ABSTRACT
Over the last three decades, scholars have developed a substantial body of research considering the impact of technology on all aspects of society, including crime (Brenner, 2008; Newman & Clarke, 2003; Wall, 2001, 2007). The evolution of technology and its general societal adoption have enabled the development of entirely new forms of crime dependent upon computers and the Internet, such as the creation and dissemination of malicious software programs (Bossler & Holt, 2009) and computer hacking (Holt, 2007). The ability to regularly connect with others in near real time has also enhanced offenders’ ability to engage in traditional forms of crime and deviance, such as harassment (Holt & Bossler, 2009), prostitution and sex offenses (Durkin & Bryant, 1999; Holt & Blevins, 2007; Holt, Blevins, & Burkert, 2010), and music and media piracy (Higgins, 2005). Property-driven cybercrimes such as hacking and data theft create tremendous financial harm for individuals, corporations, and the economy as a whole (Higgins, 2005; Newman &003; Wall, 2007). Person-driven crimes like harassment and stalking cause significant emotional and psychological harm to victims and their families (Wolak, Finkelhor, & Mitchell, 2012).
