Ranking The 7 Individual Motives Of Cybercrime

Motive 1 – Multiple Reasons: 

There could be multiple reasons a cybercriminal chooses to commit cybercrime. Understanding these reasons could help transition them from a criminal to ethical hacker or something similar. For some it could be greed, revenge, political gain, or just entertainment or a challenge.

Motive 2 –  Money:

Money seems to make the world go around. Cybercriminals committing illegal acts for money, works the same way as criminals robbing a bank. Greed drives a lot of criminals to commit illegal acts. By collecting and selling any data gathered, cybercriminals believe they can pay their bills, invest to make more money, or to earn themselves a life of riches. 

Motive 3 – Recognition:

Being recognized is something most people want in their lives, whether it is to be a famous celebrity or being recognized for a large good deed. What’s to stop cybercriminals from wanting to be recognized? Take a look at Anonymous, one of the most iconic ‘hacktivists’ known. The individual wants to remain anonymous, yet the group is extremely popular. 

Motive 4 – Political:

Some hackers may use their skill set for political gain. While they themselves may not be rising in the political ranks, the group or cause they support gains recognition. Their goal is largely to make a statement or disrupt governments or organizations. This is what the ‘hacktivist’ group Anonymous strived for. 

Motive 5 – Revenge: 

IT wouldn’t come as a surprise that some cybercriminals have a problem or a grudge with a specific organization. For some, it could even be the US government. If something terrible happens to an individual, it makes sense that the victim would not want the one who harmed them to get away with it. 

Motive 6 – Entertainment:
Some criminals enjoy the thrill or the risk of commiting crimes. They seek the thrill and adrenaline of breaking the law and avoiding getting caught. Cybercriminals are no different. They may break into a database or an organization just because they can, and find it a way to challenge themselves. They really should consider taking on a career in ethical hacking or penetration testing. 

Motive 7 – Boredom:

I think the motive that makes the least sense is boredom. While life isn’t always fun, there are better and legal ways to prevent boredom. Getting yourself into a risky situation or committing a crime because you are bored, does not make sense, and it is not worth the risk.