Who Are Cyber Criminals? A Simple Guide for Cybersecurity
Written by: Lizzie Danielson
Published: 6/9/2025
Last Updated: 3/19/2026
Cybercriminals are individuals or groups who use computers and networks to commit illegal activities for profit, disruption, or personal gain. These crimes can range from stealing private data and money to spreading harmful software or disabling services.
Want to know what makes a cybercriminal tick? You’re not alone. If you work in IT, handle sensitive data, or just like sleeping well at night, you’ve probably wondered how to spot, stop, or outsmart these digital troublemakers.
We’ll break down exactly what defines a cybercriminal, look at the different categories they fall into, and give you examples that make sense, even if tech jargon isn’t your thing. You’ll get answers to the questions people ask most and leave with expert-backed tips you can use.
By the end of this guide, you'll understand:
Now let's dive into the details of how these concepts keep your organization running safely.
A cybercriminal is anyone who intentionally uses digital technology to break the law or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. Threat actors can operate solo, in small teams, or as part of organized crime rings. Their goals usually include:
Stealing valuable data (like passwords, financial info, or trade secrets)
Infecting devices with malware or ransomware
Disrupting organizations or entire networks
Trick people into revealing private info (phishing)
The bottom line? If they’re up to no good online, they fit the bill.
Not every bad guy wears the same villain mask.
Here are some “usual suspects” you’ll encounter in the wild:
These folks find vulnerabilities (weak spots) in digital systems and exploit them for financial gain, power, or just the challenge. Note that not all hackers are criminals; “white hat” hackers work to strengthen cybersecurity, while “black hats” break in for themselves.
These crafty operators use email, phone calls, and fake websites to trick people into giving up passwords, financial data, or access to secure systems.
They design and spread malicious software (malware) like ransomware, spyware, or viruses that can destroy files, steal data, or lock users out of their systems unless a ransom is paid.
Some cybercriminals already work inside a company. They might misuse their access to sabotage systems, steal company secrets, or help outsiders get in.
Professional cybercrime gangs run sophisticated operations, with specialized team members responsible for different aspects of a digital attack, similar to teams that pull off bank heists.
Read our blog on the 36 most common cyberattacks.
Every act by a cybercriminal should make organizations strengthen their security game. That means:
More jobs in cybersecurity
Stricter rules about storing and sharing sensitive information
Advanced tools for detecting and stopping attacks faster
Non-stop education for everyone—from CISOs to interns
If you’re prepping for a cert, training a team, or shoring up your company’s defenses, understanding cyber criminals is step one.
No. Hackers can be security experts (white hats), criminals (black hats), or somewhere in between (gray hats). Only those committing illegal acts count as cyber criminals.
Cyber criminals use computers or digital networks to commit their crimes, while regular criminals operate offline.
Use strong, unique passwords, keep software updated, watch for phishing emails, and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
Nope. Some are highly skilled experts, but others are amateurs following online tutorials or buying hacking tools on the dark web.
Money is the top motivation, but some want fame, influence, or revenge. A few act simply for the challenge.
Additional Resources
Learn what physical security testers do, how they help organizations find vulnerabilities in buildings and facilities, and why they're essential for cybersecurity.
Learn what Software as a Service (SaaS) is, how it works, and key cybersecurity considerations for secure SaaS implementation in your organization.
Learn about the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), a top-tier encryption protocol trusted for safeguarding sensitive data. Explore its history, functionality, features, and practical applications.
