Criminogenic qualities of the Internet in the collection and distribution of abuse images of children

Abstract

This paper explores ways in which the Internet itself might be thought to contribute to the commission of criminal behaviour, such as the trade in abuse images of children. In doing so, it identifies a number of characteristics or qualities of the Internet that might be thought to facilitate the commission of criminal acts. The discussion is framed within a conceptual framework informed by the rational choice perspective on offending, focusing on the environmental contraints and qualities of the Internet. It identifies, in particular, search activities as being a central rate limiting activity in Internet crime. The paper also explores how this analysis might aid the development of preventative strategies.