For people involved in pre-meditated crimes, whether it is terrorism or robbery or something else, their use of technology means that they leave a digital trail, and the room for error goes up dramatically. In the future, it will be easier for violent people to make mistakes and get caught before they commit their crimes.

Jared Cohen’s quote, "For people involved in pre-meditated crimes, whether it is terrorism or robbery or something else, their use of technology means that they leave a digital trail, and the room for error goes up dramatically. In the future, it will be easier for violent people to make mistakes and get caught before they commit their crimes," highlights the growing impact of technology on crime detection and prevention. Cohen, a former advisor to the U.S. State Department and expert on technology and security, suggests that criminals increasingly leave traces of their actions through digital footprints, which can be used by authorities to track and stop them before they commit violent acts.

The mention of a digital trail emphasizes how modern technology, including communication tools and surveillance systems, often leaves behind information that can be traced back to perpetrators. Whether through emails, social media, or location tracking, technology allows law enforcement to piece together clues about criminal behavior, making it harder for individuals to evade detection. Cohen argues that this trail increases the likelihood of error for criminals, as their actions become more exposed and traceable.

Cohen also points out that as technology evolves, it will become even easier to prevent crimes before they happen. Artificial intelligence, big data analysis, and predictive algorithms are increasingly being used to analyze digital activity, which can help authorities identify potential threats or criminal behavior. The idea is that criminals will be more likely to slip up or reveal their intentions through technology, making it more difficult for them to carry out crimes undetected.

In essence, Cohen’s quote suggests a shift in the balance of power between criminals and law enforcement, where advancements in technology create new opportunities for crime prevention. As digital footprints become more ingrained in daily life, criminals will face greater risks of being caught, ultimately making it harder for them to carry out premeditated, violent crimes without making a mistake.