How to Report Computer Hackers

Many computer users fall prey to hackers and the crimes they perpetrate on unsuspecting individuals and companies. If a crime occurs in your home or business, it's not difficult to report the computer hacker.

Instructions

1. Determine which agency has jurisdiction over the crime. This will depend upon whether the crime was committed at your home or at your business, and the address of that particular location. If you live within city limits, the proper agency will generally be a police department in your town. If you live outside the city limits, within the county, contact your local sheriff's office.

2. Call the non-emergency phone number for your local police department or sheriff's office to report the crime. Ask to speak with someone in the detective's division about an Internet crime.

3. Report a computer hacker online through the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) (see Resources). Make every effort to work directly with your local agency before reporting online.

4. Seek advice from the law enforcement agency where you reported the crime. Ask what procedures they recommend for safeguarding your computer from future hacking attempts. Ask the agency investigating your crime to provide you with documentation in support of your case.

Tips & Warnings

• Record a log of your report--who you spoke with, when and where they can be reached.

• Make every effort to work with law enforcement when they request information or need access to your computer.

Resources

• Reporting Computer, Internet-Related, or Intellectual Property Crime
• Internet Crime Complaint Center