The World Cybercrime Index [1] [2] [3] [4] [6], a comprehensive ranking developed by an international team of academic researchers and published in the PLOS ONE journal [6], assesses countries based on the impact [6], professionalism [1] [3] [6], and technical skill of their cybercriminals [6].
Description
According to the index [2] [6], Russia leads with a WCI score of 58.39 [6], followed by Ukraine (36.44) and China (27.84) [6]. The US and Nigeria also rank in the top five [6], with Romania being another high-ranking country. Specific types of cybercrime are associated with different countries [5], such as data and identity theft in the US and technical product or service-related crimes in China [5]. India also made it to the top 10 in the rankings [2], indicating a significant cybercrime presence in the country [2]. Main hotspots for cybercrimes [4], including ransomware [4], credit card theft [4], and fraud [4], were identified in the report. The global cost of cybercrime is projected to reach $9.22 trillion in 2024 [5], increasing to $13.82 trillion by 2028 [5]. The study, a joint partnership between the University of Oxford and the University of New South Wales [6], funded by CRIMGOV [6], is likely to be updated and expanded in the future to further explore the relationship between national characteristics and cybercrime [6].
Conclusion
The findings of the World Cybercrime Index highlight the growing threat of cybercrime globally and the need for increased cybersecurity measures. Understanding the specific types of cybercrimes associated with different countries can help in developing targeted strategies to combat them. The projected increase in the global cost of cybercrime underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. Continued research and collaboration between academic institutions and organizations like CRIMGOV will be crucial in staying ahead of cybercriminals and protecting individuals and businesses from cyber threats.
References
[1] https://saharareporters.com/2024/04/12/nigeria-ranks-5th-among-top-countries-global-cybercrime-index
[2] https://vajiramias.com/current-affairs/world-cybercrime-index/6619193c640e7805a352ced0/
[3] https://www.fortuneindia.com/macro/world-cybercrime-index-russia-ranks-top-india-at-10th-place-specialises-in-scams/116423
[4] https://www.truescoopnews.com/newsdetail/russia-top-china-here-where-india-ranks-world-cybercrime-index
[5] https://vajiramandravi.com/upsc-daily-current-affairs/prelims-pointers/world-cybercrime-index/
[6] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/russia-ukraine-world-cybercrime/
