IGNOU BPCG 174 PSYCHOLOGY AND MEDIA UNIT 9 MEDIA REPRESENTATION OF CRIME (ENGLISH)

IGNOU BPCG 174 PSYCHOLOGY AND MEDIA UNIT 9 MEDIA REPRESENTATION OF CRIME (ENGLISH)
1. Introduction.
Crime is a pervasive social issue that transcends borders, impacting societies on multiple levels. Media plays a significant role in shaping public perception and understanding of crime, often influencing societal responses and attitudes.
2. Relationship between Crime and Media.
Crime Representations in Media:
- Media representations of crime often prioritize sensational and dramatic events, leading to a skewed perception of the overall crime landscape.
- News channels and newspapers tend to emphasize interpersonal crimes, especially those involving violence and famous individuals, which can distort the public's understanding of crime prevalence.
Crime in Media as A Social Construction:
- Media constructs and disseminates societal values and norms, often reinforcing dominant ideologies and influencing public opinion.
- The presentation of crime in media is influenced by various stakeholders and commercial interests, potentially distorting the portrayal of crime in society.
Reasons for Increase in Crime-Based Content:
- The media industry's focus on profitability often leads to the prioritization of crime-based content, emphasizing sensationalism and dramatic narratives for higher viewership and engagement.
- Crimes involving prominent individuals or sensational events are often given more coverage, contributing to the increased emphasis on crime-based content in media.
Concerns with Crime Media:
- The sensationalization of crime in media can lead to the perpetuation of stereotypes, influencing public perception and contributing to the stigmatization of certain communities or individuals.
- Media coverage can potentially shape public fear and perceptions of safety, impacting societal trust and overall well-being.
3. Cybercrime.
Classification of Cyber Crime:
- Cybercrimes encompass a wide range of illegal activities conducted using technology, including hacking, identity theft, and online fraud.
- The classification includes cybercrimes against individuals, property, organizations, and society at large.
Motives behind Cybercrime:
- Cybercriminals are often motivated by financial gain, personal vendettas, or a desire for power and recognition in online communities.
- Factors such as technological vulnerabilities, low cybersecurity awareness, and a lack of stringent laws contribute to the rise in cybercrime.
Target Group:
- Individuals most vulnerable to cybercrimes include frequent internet users, smartphone users, and those using public Wi-Fi networks.
- Cybercriminals often target individuals with inadequate knowledge of cybersecurity and those who are less cautious about sharing personal information online.
Characteristics of An Offender:
- Cybercriminals come from diverse backgrounds and may include individuals with advanced coding skills, insiders with privileged access, or those motivated by financial gain.
- Various factors, including technological advancements and low cybersecurity orientation, contribute to the complexity of identifying and preventing cybercrimes.
Cybercrime in India:
- Cybercrimes in India have witnessed a significant increase, with a considerable number of cases involving fraud and identity theft.
- The proliferation of digital technologies and the lack of stringent regulations contribute to the challenges in combating cybercrimes effectively.
Factors Affecting Cybercrime and Cybersecurity:
- Socioeconomic factors, technological vulnerabilities, and cultural attitudes contribute to the prevalence of cybercrimes in developing economies.
- The lack of cybersecurity infrastructure, along with a low demand for cybersecurity specialists, poses challenges to effectively combatting cyber threats.
Cyber Law:
- The Information Technology Act of India plays a crucial role in addressing digital crimes and regulating e-commerce activities.
- The Act emphasizes the legal validity of digital signatures, data protection, and the prevention of cybercrimes, highlighting the importance of a robust legal framework to address cyber threats effectively.
Preventing Cybercrime:
- Preventative measures include regular software updates, strong password protection, and the use of reliable security software to safeguard personal and financial information online.
- Promoting awareness and education about cybersecurity practices is vital in mitigating the risks associated with cybercrimes and ensuring a safer online environment for individuals and organizations.
4. Media Violence Effects and Violent Crime.
Theories of Media Violence:
- Theoretical perspectives, such as social learning theory and catharsis models, help explain the complex relationship between media violence and aggressive behavior.
- These theories emphasize the role of media in shaping individuals' cognitive scripts and influencing their behavioral responses, particularly in the context of violent crimes.