Crime refers to an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or punishable by law. It encompasses a wide range of activities considered harmful to individuals, society, or the state and is classified into various categories, such as felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. Crimes can be categorized based on their nature, such as violent crimes (e.g., murder, assault), property crimes (e.g., theft, burglary), white-collar crimes (e.g., fraud, embezzlement), and victimless crimes (e.g., drug use, gambling).
The definition of a crime varies based on jurisdiction and legal systems; different societies may define and penalize certain actions differently. Crime typically results in legal consequences that may include fines, imprisonment, community service, or other penalties. The enforcement of criminal laws is managed by law enforcement agencies and the judicial system. Crime is often studied in the fields of criminology, sociology, and criminal justice to understand its causes, effects, and prevention strategies.