Hidden in Plain Sight? Examining the Public Availability of Law Enforcement Cybercrime Resources

• In Event: Findings From the Scholars of the University of Cincinnati Cybercrime and Behavior Online Research Group

Abstract

As cybercrime continues to evolve, law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in responding to digital threats. The 2020 Law Enforcement Management and Administrative Statistics (LEMAS) survey collects data on whether agencies address cybercrime through specialized units, designated personnel, or informal responses. However, little is known about whether these resources are publicly and easily accessible to victims of cybercrime. This study examines the extent to which agencies reporting cybercrime enforcement efforts provide cybercrime-related information on their websites. We conducted a content analysis of police agencies websites who specified that they have some form of cybercrime response. Specifically, we coded each website based on whether they publicly list cybercrime resources, and if they did provide resources, we specified which crimes were noted. Using binary logistic regression, we assess the relationship between an agency’s cybercrime response structure and the likelihood of providing public-facing cybercrime resources. Findings will offer insight into law enforcement transparency in cybercrime response and the accessibility of resources for the public.

Authors

• Matthew McGrath, University of Cincinnati

• Jane Mahon, University of Cincinnati

• Cooper Maher, Michigan State University