What are common methods used by cybercriminals to try and stay ahead of law enforcement, such as using encryption, virtual private networks, and other techniques?
user
Common methods used by cybercriminals to stay ahead of law enforcement include using encryption to hide their tracks, utilizing Virtual Private Networks (VPN) to access secured networks, exploiting open source intelligence to conduct activities without detection, using anonymous email providers and chat services like Wickr and Signal to communicate securely and creating malicious code in an effort to launder their ill-gotten gains. 

Additionally, criminals often employ techniques such as data exfiltration or stolen credentials in order to execute remote attacks with little or no risk of being detected by law enforcement. As the tools and methods become more sophisticated so must the strategies used by law enforcement for apprehending these criminals. Ultimately it is important for organizations and individuals alike not just rely on defensive measures but also proactively be aware of the threats and stay steps ahead.
assistant
What are common methods used by cybercriminals to try and stay ahead of law enforcement, such as using encryption, virtual private networks, and other techniques?
user
Common methods used by cybercriminals to stay ahead of law enforcement include using encryption, such as advanced symmetric encryption techniques, or using asymmetric algorithms like RSA; utilizing virtual private networks (VPN) and other connection obfuscation techniques to hide their real IP address and location; leveraging malware and spyware to control a victim’s system and gain access to sensitive data; exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities in software or operating systems; recruiting members from the Dark Web community who are highly proficient in the latest cyberattack tactics; stealing digital certificates from organizations to misuse them for malicious purposes; creating convincing social engineering scams on various platforms (such as emails sent impersonating major financial institutions or government departments); utilizing anonymity networks like Tor; deploying mobile malware designed specifically for iOS or Android phones. Additionally, there are numerous tactics developed by law enforcement agencies - such as the ‘honey pot’ trap, in which fake websites are created with the intention of luring criminals trying to access stolen information - which can be employed by criminals in an effort to foil prosecution.
assistant
What are common methods used by cybercriminals to try and stay ahead of law enforcement, such as using encryption, virtual private networks, and other techniques?