Given how difficult it is to predict the future of cybercrime, the most effective method in making cyber policy is to learn from past mistakes. As unfortunate as it is, it is nearly impossible to predict new types of cyber-crime; however, we can use our knowledge of past failures to be better prepared for what is to come. Perhaps the best course of action is to treat cyber policy like that of real-world legislature; have informed branches and committees vote on policy in order to have the best possible outcome.

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Although cybercrime and in-person crime can be similar, there are many differences between the interactions of offenders and their victims. Cybercrime is often far less personal than in-person crime, meaning that violations such as stalking and harassment are more likely to occur between strangers compared to the real world. In addition to this, while cybercrime does not place the victim in immediate physical danger, it does have many detrimental effects such as exposing personal information, harassment, and even identity theft. The outstanding issue with cybercrime that sets it apart from regular crime is that it often takes place anonymously. On top of that, the victim is often unaware the crime has taken place until much later, and unlike regular crime, the victim is often not aware of the situation until the offender has covered their tracks.

In cases of virtual and live harassment, relations between the victim and offender also differ. Unlike reality, cyber harassment occurs over the internet through avenues such as social media or online chats. Oftentimes cyber harassment can occur without reason, as the culprit may simply enjoy getting a reaction out of others. Once again, the issue is that this is often anonymous, leaving people emboldened to say or do things that they would often not in person; for example, one might release explicit photos or information that can destroy a victim’s image and social life. The harasser could even uncover old posts or messages and use them to blackmail the victim into accepting demands. Overall, cybercrime can in some cases be just as detrimental as in-person stalking and harassment; it is simply a different type of harm as it often never becomes physical, but can mentally drain a victim to their breaking point.