The impact of internet crime on development

Purpose - The global wave of information and communication technologies (ICT) development has become a strong driving force in almost every aspect of development. This paper aims to explore the impact of internet crime on individuals, organisations, businesses and government agencies in both developed and developing countries with special reference to developing countries. Design/methodology/approach - The analysis in this paper is based on extensive review of published research works, which provide theoretical and empirical evidence on the effects and impact of the internet on development. Findings - The paper generally concludes that the internet is overwhelmingly a powerful tool for development. Paradoxically, the internet is a “double‐edged sword”, providing many opportunities for individuals and organisations to develop but at the same time, has brought with it new opportunities to commit crime. The paper argues that the internet presents new challenges to law enforcement in both developed and developing countries. However, developing countries suffer greatly from the activities of internet crime than their developed counterparts as developing countries have inadequate technology, infrastructure and insufficient law enforcement expertise. Practical implications - This paper reminds individuals, organisations and policy makers alike that internet crime has become a global issue that requires the full participation and cooperation of both developed and developing countries at the international level, as internet crime investigations often require that evidence be traced and collected in more that one country. ICT industries should focus now in designing products that are resistant to crime and can facilitate detection and investigation of crime. Originality/value - A major novelty of this paper is that it traces the historical evolution of the internet and then sketches out some of the innovations the internet has brought as well as considering the negative effects associated with this technology and its impact on development.