Review the articles linked with each individual motive. Rank the
motives from 1 to 7 as the motives that you think make the most sense (being 1) to the least sense (being 7). Explain why you rank each motive the way you rank it.

1. for money
2. political
3. entertainment
4. revenge
5. recognition
6. boredom
7. multiple reason

Money motivation for cybercrime makes the most sense because money is one of the primary motivations for cyber crime. In many cases, individuals or organized crime groups engage in cybercrime for financial gain. This can take the form of theft of personal information, such as credit card numbers and Social Security numbers, which can be sold on the black market. Other common forms of cybercrime for financial gain include banking and financial fraud, ransomware attacks, and online scams. Additionally, some cyber criminals engage in “ransomware-as-a-service,” where they rent out their tools and services to others who want to carry out ransomware attacks. These attackers can make substantial profits by extorting money from victims in exchange for unlocking their encrypted files.

Political motivations can play a significant role in driving cybercrime and the use of cyberattacks as a tool for political purposes is a growing concern. It’s important for governments, organizations, and individuals to be aware of these threats and take steps to protect themselves and their systems from political motivated cyberattacks.

Some individuals may engage in cybercrime for entertainment or personal satisfaction. This can include hacking into systems or networks just for the thrill of it, or to prove their technical skills to others. In some cases, these individuals may participate in hacking challenges or competitions, where they attempt to find vulnerabilities in systems or networks. In short, while entertainment may be a motivation for some individuals to engage in cybercrime, it’s crucial to understand that these actions can have serious consequences and should not be taken lightly.

Revenge can also be a motivation for some individuals to engage in cybercrime. This can take the form of cyberattacks aimed at individuals or organizations that the attacker feels have wronged them in some way. For example, an individual may launch a cyberattack against a former employer in retaliation for being fired or against a romantic partner after a breakup. In some cases, these attacks can be carried out using tactics such as spreading false information, compromising personal or financial information, or disrupting the target’s operations.

Recognition or fame can also be a motivation for some individuals to engage in cybercrime. This can take the form of individuals or groups seeking attention for their technical skills or accomplishments, such as by successfully hacking into high-profile systems or networks.

Boredom can also be a motivation for some individuals to engage in cybercrime. This can take the form of individuals who are looking for excitement or stimulation, and turn to hacking or other forms of cybercrime as a way to pass the time or challenge themselves. In some cases, these individuals may start out as hobbyists or enthusiasts, but their activities can quickly escalate into illegal or harmful behavior. For example, an individual who is bored may start by exploring vulnerable systems or networks for fun, but eventually move on to more serious crimes like theft or blackmail.