Which of the following best defines computer crime?

The definition of computer crime encompasses a variety of activities that involve unauthorized use or manipulation of computer systems and data. The correct answer highlights several key aspects of this definition, including unauthorized access, software piracy, and identity fraud.

Unauthorized access involves individuals gaining entry to a computer system without permission, which can lead to data breaches and privacy violations. Software piracy refers to the illegal copying and distribution of software, which infringes on copyright laws and affects the software industry financially. Identity fraud, another critical component, involves stealing someone's personal information, typically through digital means, to engage in fraudulent activities such as financial theft or impersonation.

This comprehensive approach captures the diverse forms of computer crime, indicating that it is not limited to just hacking or financial fraud but includes various unlawful actions that abuse technology and compromise security. The other answers either narrow the focus too much, misrepresent the scope of computer crime, or fail to recognize the breadth of this issue, which includes both violent and non-violent aspects as well as various mediums and methods of committing these crimes.