Crime Dot Com: From Viruses to Vote Rigging, How Hacking Went Global

The Love Bug virus paralyzed banks, broadcasters, and businesses in 2000, marking the beginning of the age of Crime Dot Com. Geoff White charts the development of hacking, from its birth in the Eastern Bloc to its becoming the most pervasive threat to our connected world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2021
Publisher: Reaktion Books

On May 4, 2000, an email with the subject "LOVELETTER" was sent from the Philippines. The email contained a virus known as the Love Bug, which quickly spread and paralyzed banks, broadcasters, and businesses across the globe. This event marked the beginning of the era known as Crime Dot Com. Geoff White, in his book "Crime Dot Com: The Hunt for the Cybercriminal Who Changed the World," charts the astonishing development of hacking from its origins in the ruins of the Eastern Bloc to its emergence as the most pervasive threat to our connected world.

White takes readers inside the workings of real-life cybercrimes, revealing how the tactics of high-tech crooks are now being harnessed by nation-states. The book covers a wide range of hacking incidents, from the infamous Ashley Madison data breach to election rigging. It provides a thrilling account of hacking, past and present, and offers insights into what the future might hold for this evolving threat.

One of the key themes of "Crime Dot Com" is the increasing sophistication of hacking techniques. As technology advances, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in systems and networks. The book highlights the role of nation-states in the development of hacking capabilities, with some countries investing heavily in cyber warfare and intelligence-gathering.

White also delves into the personal stories of cybercriminals, providing a glimpse into their motivations and methods. The book sheds light on the often-complex relationships between hackers and their victims, as well as the impact of cybercrime on individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.

Overall, "Crime Dot Com" is a comprehensive and engaging book that provides a valuable perspective on the world of hacking. It is essential reading for anyone interested in cybersecurity, technology, and the intersection of politics and crime.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 197 x 129 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789144437