Punishments for Cyber Criminals – Or Lack Thereof

We must find a way to catch cyber criminals who continue to victimize businesses and home computer users, worldwide.  Cyber criminals made $1 billion in ransomware payments alone in 2016.

If and when these hackers are caught, what is an adequate punishment?

Punishment For Cyber Criminals – Or Lack Thereof

Krasimir Nikolova, a Bulgarian native, was extradited to the U.S. for his alleged involvement with the distribution of the malware, GozNym in September of 2016.  According to SC Magazine Nikolova is facing multiple charges, including criminal conspiracy, unauthorized access of a computer to obtain financial information, and bank fraud.  If convicted, Nikolova is facing 100 years in prison and a $3,500,000 fine.  Is this reasonable or even realistic?  If he is found guilty, is it fair for U.S. tax payers to pay for this man to be housed in prison for the rest of his life?  Hasn’t he already taken enough from Americans?  Understandably, these criminals must be punished.  Although, it seems incredibly unfortunate that we have to use American tax dollars to do it.

Another arrest recently occurred in Alberta, Canada after malware was discovered on University of Alberta computers.  This individual, Yibin Xu, a 19 year old student at the college is suspected for the attack.  According to Metro News, his charges include mischief in relation to computer data, unauthorized use of computer services, fraudulently intercepting functions of a computer system and use of a computer system with intent to commit an offence.  The maximum sentence Xu is facing, is not being disclosed.

What is your opinion? What is justice for these malicious crimes?  If you’ve been a victim of malware, what would you like to see happen to your hacker?

 

 

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