In the vast world of the internet, cybercrime has continuously evolved, shaping the strategies and approaches surrounding cybersecurity. The phrase 'evolution of cyber crime' encapsulates the dynamics of this transformation that we aim to explore in this discourse.

The initial formation of the internet brought about a new frontier for crime. In the early days, cybercrime was relatively simple and consisted of activities such as email scams, virus spreading, and website vandalism. As the internet grew, so did cybercrime, with criminals exploiting any vulnerability they could find.

Over time, the development of highly sophisticated technologies and the increased dependence of individuals and businesses on digital platforms have significantly changed the nature and face of cybercrime. This shift merits a painstaking exploration on how cybercrime, as we now understand it, has matured to pose more pressing threats to the cybersecurity landscape.

The Advent of Malware

The first known computer virus, the Creeper system, an experimental self-replicating program, marked the beginning of what would come to be a vast world of malicious software. The proliferation of viruses posed a threat to individual users and businesses alike.

With the spread of personal computers and the internet, a floodgate for software piracy, copyright infringement, and various forms of cybercrimes was opened. Hackers focused on breaching systems for personal gain or just the thrill of bypassing security systems.

Power in Information

The rise of the digital age also gave birth to a valuable commodity: information. The digitization of sensitive information created a new realm of cybercrime, where cybercriminals aim to steal personal data and, eventually, identities. Phishing, a technique used by hackers to trick people into revealing sensitive information, became popular.

The 21st century presented a dramatic expansion of cybercriminal activities. The significant rise of e-commerce prompted the criminal mining of personal information for financial gains. The number of data breaches skyrocketed, from petty thievery to full-scale cyber attacks aimed at large corporations or even governments.

Cyber Terrorism

As we ventured further into the 21st century, cybercrime leveled up to cyberterrorism and even cyberwarfare. Cyber terrorists attack computing resources or networks, causing harm or forcing political changes. This evolution of cyber crime shows that the issue isn't just about theft or data breaches; it's also a matter of national security.

The World in the Shadows: Darknet

The Darknet, an encrypted network where illicit activities thrive, has become a hotbed for cybercrime. Cybercriminals conduct activities in the Darknet, ranging from the trade of illegal goods to discussions of hacking strategies, making it difficult for law enforcement and security experts to trace and apprehend criminals.

This evolution of cyber crime demonstrates the depth and complexities of the threat that individuals, corporations, and nations face. The ability to remain anonymous online provides a cloak for cybercriminals, which forms a significant barrier to preventing cybercrime and catching criminals.

The Future of Cybercrime

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, once hailed as revolutionary technologies for advancement, have also found their way into the toolbox of cybercriminals. AI-based attacks are expected to rise, posing an unpredictable new era of threats to cybersecurity. Ransomware has also evolved with the cybercrime landscape and will likely remain a prevalent threat in the foreseeable future.

This swift evolution of cyber crime reinforces the dire need for continually evolving cybersecurity strategies. This necessity becomes more urgent considering the critical role of digital infrastructures and platforms in almost every aspect of modern life.

In conclusion, tracing the 'evolution of cyber crime' reveals an increasingly complex and daunting cybersecurity landscape. The growth and sophistication of cybercrime ask for an equally relentless pursuit of breakthroughs in cybersecurity. As we step further into the digital age, it becomes more crucial to leverage innovative technologies, craft robust policies, and foster global collaborations in our stand against cybercrime. Preserving the safety and integrity of our digital world is a collective responsibility we must undertake, recognizing that every security challenge we face signifies an evolution of a crime that knows no borders - cybercrime.