Can Internet Mischief Be Caught?

In addition to being the world's greatest communications medium, the Internet is one of the most effective conduits for fraud, illegality, and other mischief. Moreover, perpetrators, and the general public, tend to think that this kind of misconduct is uncatchable.

But Internet mischief may be more catchable than is generally assumed. And the tide of public indifference may have turned; law enforcement and aggrieved persons are becoming more aggressive at asserting their rights.

Consider some of the well-known pieces of Internet mischief (a term I'll use to encompass criminality, fraud, revenge, hate, and other intentionally harmful activities):

• The recent viral TikTok video providing how-to instructions for stealing certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles.