cybercrime
noun
cy·ber·crime
ˈsī-bər-ˌkrīm
plural cybercrimes
: criminal activity (such as fraud, theft, or distribution of child pornography) committed using a computer especially to illegally access, transmit, or manipulate data
The growing number of mobile devices, such as phones and tablets, and the popularity of social networks give them new avenues in which to expand their cybercrime.—Eric Geier
Cybercrime is taking a bottom-line toll on the corporate workplace. Last year, losses exceeded $100 million—and that figure continues to skyrocket as security breaches pose an increasing threat to U.S. corporations, banks, and even the government.—Beth Wilson
also
: an instance of such activity
The increasing prevalence of cloud computing … has made storing and accessing important electronic data easier and less expensive than ever. However, the expanding number of documents and other information being stored electronically has increased the threat of cybercrimes, including data breaches. —John Squitero
cybercriminal
ˈsī-bər-ˌkri-mə-nᵊl
noun
-ˈkrim-nəl
plural cybercriminals
More small businesses are falling victim to "ransomware," to which malicious code locks up computer files and cybercriminals demand a ransom to free them.
—Ruth Simon
Cite this Entry
“Cybercrime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cybercrime. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.
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