Cyber technology is able to impact interactions between offenders and victims through the use of different types of communication.  (Hazelwood & Magnin, 2013) With portable devices like cell phones, tablets, and computers we are able to access applications such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and a slew of other social networking sites.  All of these sites make communication in our lives easier because we can talk to family and friends no matter where they are in the world.  These devices and applications are also capable of harming us or the people we love.  Offenders are able to threaten, coercive, or intimidate, which can cause victims to have a sense of fear, terror, stress, or anxiety.  (Hazelwood & Magnin, 2013) Individuals and groups such as the far right and Islamic extremist are able to use cyber technology, the media, and social media to speak about their ideologies and spread news stories that is able to entice their agendas which may lead people to accept them.  (Holt & Bolden, 2014) The white power movement is able to use the internet and social media to share views, materials and plans with no consequences, they are also able to recruit members through this avenue.  If we use the former president Donald Trump and his use of media and social media platforms as an example, we can say that he was able to rally his supporters and coordinate the storm on the Capital.  The use of cyber technology and communication in order to gain support, rally like-minded people on important issues, and communicate will always be important.  We also have to understand that with this use of platforms hate groups and individuals will always have the chance to cyber stalk and harass innocent people.  In order to fight the negative effects of cyber staking and harassment states have made efforts to update legislation to protect its citizens.  Without legal protection it may empower offenders, and lead citizens to take actions into their own hands causing more problems for themselves, and the community around them.  (Hazelwood & Magnin, 2013)

Works Cited

Hazelwood, S. D.-M. (2013). Cyber Stalking and Cyber Harassmen Legistlation in the United States: A Qualitative Analysis. International Journal of Cyber Criminology, 155-168.

Holt, T. J. (2014). Technological Skills of White Supermacists in a Online Forum: A Qualitive Examination. International Journal of Cyber Criminolgy.