Cyber crime on the rise in Canada

According to a recent survey commissioned by the Canadian Association of Police Boards, cyber crime is quickly becoming that country’s top crime.

In a release issued by the CAPB, an official with the organization said that the average Canadian citizen is "now more likely to be the victim of a crime through the Internet than on the street or in their home."

In addition, the survey found that:

• 49 percent of respondents have been a victim of cyber crime. • 70 percent of victims of cyber crime have not reported the crime as they were unsure who to report to or did not think any justice would occur. • 86 percent of respondents indicate that cyber crime has become a concern. • 95 percent of respondents believe they are being targeted for cyber crime (most respondents believe the greatest threats are identity theft, financial fraud and computer viruses). • 89 percent of respondents believe that preventing cyber crime should be a priority of government and law enforcement agencies.

To help stem the tide, the survey recommends that a national cyber crime center be established where law enforcement and other agencies can work together to combat the problem.