USING AI-POWERED SYSTEMS FOR IDENTIFYING AND INVESTIGATING

CYBERCRIMES TO ENHANCE CYBERSECURITY IN LAW ENFORCEMENT

by

CHRISTOPHER S. HOPE

BS, University of Phoenix, 2014

MS, University of Phoenix, 2016

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A Research Paper Submitted to the School of Computing Faculty of
Middle Georgia State University in
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Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree
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DOCTOR OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

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MACON, GEORGIA

2024
 USING AI-POWERED SYSTEMS FOR IDENTIFYING AND
INVESTIGATING CYBERCRIMES TO ENHANCE CYBERSECURITY IN
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Christopher S. Hope, Middle Georgia State University, [email protected]

Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be a valuable ally for law enforcement in combating crime in the digital age.
AI's analytical capabilities have several advantages, including detecting patterns, processing vast amounts
of data, and analyzing unstructured data. Some challenges require responsible implementation, such as
mitigating bias, protecting privacy, and ensuring transparency and accountability. This study aims to
explore the potential of AI in improving criminal investigations and prosecution rates, determine methods
for safeguarding sensitive data, and encourage responsible AI use to advance justice in the digital age. By
utilizing AI's power responsibly, law enforcement can combat crime more effectively, protect communities,
and uphold the principles of justice.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Law Enforcement, Criminal Investigations, Crime Prevention,

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Cybersecurity, Data Analysis, Algorithmic Bias, Ethical Considerations

Introduction
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In today's digital age, hackers use various tactics to access sensitive information, including social
engineering. Hackers trick employees into revealing the data needed to infiltrate a network by pretending
to be a trustworthy third-party entity (Pettit, 2023). This is the first step in a series of actions to gain
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administrative control of targeted data. However, organizations with robust monitoring and alert systems
can identify unusual behavior, privilege escalation, and other signs of a potential attack, which can help
thwart hackers' efforts.
While technology has given criminals an edge over law enforcement, it has also provided the police with
tools to work more intelligently and efficiently. By continually improving their methods, law enforcement
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stays ahead of criminal activity (Johnson et al., 2023). Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into criminal
investigations presents an opportunity to solve more cases and improve prosecution rates. Once viewed
skeptically for local government use, cloud-based storage has emerged as a cost-effective option with
enhanced security features and increased computing capacity, which is particularly beneficial for complex
tasks like analytics and digital forensics (Chowdhury, 2021).
This study examined the use of AI in criminal investigations and its potential to enhance case resolution
and prosecution rates. AI can identify potential criminal activity, from financial crimes to cyber fraud and
employee theft. By assisting law enforcement agencies in processing and analyzing vast amounts of data,
AI acts as a force multiplier, saving time and money while improving accuracy. In addition, combining
human expertise with AI can streamline forensic investigations, enabling investigators to focus on areas
where fraud is most likely to occur. The ability of AI to process unstructured data, such as videos, images,
e-mails, and text files, also holds the potential to revolutionize criminal investigations by offering a more
efficient and practical approach to fighting crime (Europol, 2023).
This research explored how AI can improve criminal investigations, focusing on enhancing case resolution
and prosecution rates. Using AI's analytical capabilities, law enforcement agencies can identify and
prosecute criminal activities more accurately and efficiently (Rigano, 2018). The collaboration between
human expertise and AI can lead to more streamlined forensic investigations and targeted efforts to combat
fraudulent activities (Sayegh, 2022). AI's ability to analyze unstructured data can transform criminal
investigations, offering a practical and resource-efficient approach to combating crime (Police 1, 2022).
This study provides valuable insights to inform future strategies, encourage innovation, and advance justice
in the digital age.
The implementation of AI has the potential to significantly enhance criminal investigations, leading to an
increased rate of case resolution and prosecution. AI technology can identify areas of potential criminal
activity, ranging from money laundering, fraud, and terrorist financing to more commonplace crimes like
cyber fraud, employee theft, and fake invoices. By assisting law enforcement agencies in processing and
analyzing vast amounts of data, AI acts as a force multiplier, saving time and money while improving
accuracy (Rigano, 2018).
Moreover, by combining human expertise with AI, forensic investigations can be streamlined, saving
valuable time and resources and enabling investigators to focus on areas where fraud is most likely to occur.
AI also allows companies to process unstructured data, such as videos, images, e-mails, and text files, to
detect criminal activity and prevent potential crimes. This technology can potentially revolutionize criminal
investigations, providing a more efficient and practical approach to fighting crime (Rigano, 2018). This
research will answer the following question:
RQ1: How can integrating artificial intelligence techniques enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement

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agencies in investigating crimes and enforcing the law?

Review of the Literature

AI Integration in Law Enforcement
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A study aimed to gather insights from 111 citizens on using AI by law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in the
context of cybercrime and terrorism. The participants provided valuable suggestions for necessary
safeguards, highlighting several key themes. Firstly, educating LEA staff on ethical practices and civic
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education can help children understand data collection processes and the role of AI in decision-making. It
is crucial to simplify language, use short sentences, and avoid technical terms to make the information
accessible and easy to understand. By prioritizing the most essential information and organizing it logically,
we can ensure that the text flows smoothly and is easily comprehended.
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Additionally, using active voice and simple vocabulary can further increase the text's clarity and
effectiveness. (Ezzeddine et al., 2023). Secondly, participants recommended regular evaluations of AI tools
to prevent biases and detect algorithm errors.
Rigano (2018) also stressed the need to anonymize collected data to protect privacy and prevent misuse
properly. Thirdly, the development of legal frameworks, national and international regulations, and policies
to limit LEAs' use of data. It was also suggested that independent agencies or third parties monitor and
supervise AI implementation. Fourthly, participants suggested careful selection and vetting of staff
involved in AI data collection and handling. The importance of human validation of AI decisions and
interpretations to avoid errors and biases was highlighted. Fifthly, concerns were expressed about invasion
of privacy, and it was recommended that data collection be limited, consent from individuals be obtained,
and non-relevant information be disposed of (Rigano, 2018).
Ezzeddine et. Al (2023) suggested judicial control over obtained information. A small group of participants
opposed using AI altogether and suggested relying on traditional methods. Lastly, some participants
acknowledged the existence of adverse effects but questioned the feasibility of preventing them. The study
emphasizes the importance of citizen perspectives in legitimizing the deployment of AI tools by LEAs. The
findings highlight the need for safeguards to address concerns related to privacy, biases, and potential
negative consequences of AI use in law enforcement (Ezzeddine et al., 2023). The insights gained can
contribute to developing responsible AI practices and policies in the context of LEAs.
 In the article, How Will Artificial Intelligence Affect Policing and Law Enforcement? The article discussed
various aspects of AI's role in policing, such as predictive policing, surveillance technologies, and data
analysis. Predictive policing involves using AI algorithms to analyze historical data to predict potential
criminal activity, which can help law enforcement allocate resources effectively (Editorial Team, 2023).
The article also examined using AI-powered surveillance technologies, including facial and license plate
recognition, in law enforcement. However, the article highlighted ethical concerns surrounding AI in
policing, such as privacy, bias, and potential abuse. It emphasizes the importance of transparency and
accountability in AI-powered law enforcement, calling for clear regulations and oversight. The article also
stresses the impact of AI on community trust in law enforcement and how striking the right balance between
technological innovation and civil liberties is crucial. Overall, the article explores the growing role of AI in
policing, its potential benefits, ethical concerns, and the importance of ensuring transparency and
accountability to maintain public trust (Hsiung et al., 2023).
Law Enforcement Framework
The Cybersecurity Resilience and Law Enforcement Collaboration (CyRLEC) Framework is an all-
encompassing strategy for cybersecurity that prioritizes cooperation with law enforcement to minimize
online attacks. This framework aims to establish a comprehensive and integrated approach to cybersecurity
by emphasizing collaboration with law enforcement agencies to mitigate cyber threats (Schiliro, 2023). Its

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five core components include risk management, prevention, detection, response, and collaboration. A
comparison of the CyRLEC Framework and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework reveals significant
distinctions. The study used a qualitative design with semi-structured interviews in a simulated real-world
situation, focusing on healthcare organizations. The study concluded that the CyRLEC Framework is an
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adaptable and thorough system for managing cybersecurity risks, particularly in the healthcare industry
(Schiliro, 2023).
The research findings demonstrate the value of the CyRLEC Framework in improving cybersecurity
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resilience and promoting effective collaboration with law enforcement agencies. The paper contributes to
the knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and offers practical insights for organizations seeking to
enhance their cybersecurity posture (Ratiu, 2023).
Machine Learning and Law Enforcement
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Berk (2020) explored the applications of machine learning and big data analytics in criminology and
criminal justice. The recent developments in these technologies and their potential impact on understanding
and addressing crime-related issues were also explored (Berk, 2020).
Redden et al. (2020) highlight that machine learning, a subset of artificial Intelligence, has become
increasingly prominent in analyzing large volumes of data and extracting patterns and insights (Redden et
al., 2020). Machine learning algorithms can be applied to criminology and criminal justice fields. These
algorithms can help with crime prediction, offender profiling, and risk assessment.
Furthermore, the potential benefits of employing big data analytics in criminology research are emphasized
in the article. Researchers can identify trends, correlations, and predictive patterns in criminal behavior by
analyzing significant amounts of data, such as criminal records, social media activity, and geographical
information (Chiancone, 2023). This information can be valuable in designing effective crime prevention
strategies, resource allocation, and policymaking.
Law enforcement can use data analysis to identify trends, correlations, and predictive patterns in criminal
behavior. Various data sources, including criminal records, social media activity, and geographical
information, can be collected and integrated to locate crime hotspots, detect potential threats, and allocate
resources more efficiently. Advanced analytical techniques like machine learning algorithms and predictive
analytics models can help forecast the likelihood of crimes occurring in specific areas or timeframes. With

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