Victimology and How Technology Changes over the Past 20 Years - Essay Example

Technology that causes victimization includes the cyber net, cell phones, ATMs, electronic data transfer, etc. However, in the contemporary world, the most intense victimization is seen over the internet.

Within the last few years internet identity crime has gained enough recognition throughout the world (Gray, 2010). This is based upon an individual’s identity numbers, bank accounts, school information, or any other security code which is unique to every person around the globe. Online criminals hack or steal this information and then they use it for causing financial, physical, or moral damage to the victim. Victimization is now increasing at a stimulating rate as compared to the past.

Moreover, the lack of awareness regarding internet identity crime has also facilitated it to a greater extent (Gray, 2010). People suffering from victimization are usually reluctant to contact law enforcement agencies because of embarrassment or due to the chances of further victimization by the offender. It is significantly easier for any cybercriminal to harass an individual by staying at a distance. This increases the complexity of the situation for law enforcement agencies since they fail to trace the offenders.

Online criminals do not only harm individuals rather they possess the ability to destroy large corporations, for instance, by simply causing them financial loss or interrupting bank transactions (Gray, 2010). Victims of online crime belong to a relatively narrow group of people who are largely neglected by the judiciary system. Victimology was only recognized in the middle 20th century, before that, criminals were the major focus of law enforcement agencies. There are primarily three factors that initiate victimization in this era of technological advancement.

These include the environmental effects, characteristics of the offender, and most importantly the precipitation of the victim. The environment and distinguishing characteristics of an offender are easy to understand since they revolve around criminal and law enforcement agencies. However, victim precipitation deals with the unique personality of the injured person. Research indicates that victimization is not only carried by the offenders, rather victims are also equal participants in the crime through their involvement in dangerous situations. For instance, sharing personal information on public websites can cause serious damage which should be avoided. These victims usually undergo severe depression, psychological issues, and financial crises (Gray, 2010).

Technological changes are unprecedented to the advancement in science which has further encouraged online offenders. However, much awareness is required in terms of sharing information online to reduce the massive victimization taking place over the internet.ReferencesGray, K. (2010). Internet identity theft: An insight into victimology and law enforcement response.