U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

Defending Against Cybercrime and Terrorism: A New Role for Universities

NCJ Number
208630
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 74 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2005 Pages: 14-20
Author(s)
Tony Aeilts
Editor(s)
John E. Ott
Date Published
January 2005
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article examines the new and innovative role of colleges and universities as a resource in the fight against cybercrime and the threat of terrorism.
Abstract
With the growth of technological access, systems, and resources, cyber-related crimes are on the rise in many communities. The rise in cyber-related crimes inhibits the use of developing technology and adversely affects national economic conditions. This article begins by defining the scope of the problem from the cyber-stalking of children to cyber-terrorism. Because cyber incidents can cross regional, State, and international jurisdictional boundaries there must be a coordination of efforts and a sharing of resources among agencies to address the high-tech crime problem. Higher-education institutions can play a significant role in assisting law enforcement and national defense by developing a national strategy for securing computer networks. Law enforcement agencies typically under use higher-education resources, however, they are abundant within the realm of technology. Specific strategies identified include: law enforcement should identify faculty and staff as a significant training resource, educationally based law enforcement agencies should provide a critical conduit for allied law enforcement agencies with access to university high-tech resources and personnel, and collaborating with colleges and universities may produce additional financial resources through funding opportunities. High-tech faculty, staff, and facilities, as well as university police departments, are a powerful combination of resources.