Cybercrime and Adversarial Behaviours - COMP7016

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2025 to 2026
Canterbury
Spring Term 7 20 (10) Virginia Franqueira checkmark-circle

Overview

The global cost of cybercrime is more than a trillion pounds, and every year it increases. It impacts everyone from individuals to families, businesses, and governments. But why does cybercrime persist even after years of advances in cyber security, investment and collaborative efforts by law enforcement, and initiatives to increase people's awareness of online risks? The answer lies in the pervasive nature of cybercrime itself and in those who perpetrate cybercrimes and cyberattacks – this module is all about these two topics. You’ll learn about the nuances of cybercrime, and what makes it such a challenging global, yet personal, threat. Each week we’ll delve into a new aspect of cybercrime. From the attacks themselves to how they work, why they’re successful and what security professionals and law enforcement agencies have attempted to address them. We’ll also look closely at the perpetrators of these crimes – who they are, what makes them tick, and how do they work together to construct such a vast cybercriminal ecosystem.

Details

Contact hours

32

Availability

Spring (September Start)
Autumn (January Start)

Method of assessment

Online quiz worth 25%
Online quiz worth 25%
Examination worth 50%

Re-assessment
Like-for-like

Indicative reading

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to: 

Articulate why cybercrime remains a significant challenge to address

Explain and characterise a series of cybercrimes and related adversaries

Evaluate how existing cybercrimes may adapt as the technology landscape changes

Profile a group or individual engaged in cybercrime

Apply appropriate security measures to address cybercriminal threats given a defined environment

Notes

  1. Credit level 7. Undergraduate or postgraduate masters level module.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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