An attempted crime occurs when a person takes steps to commit a crime but does not complete it. For example, if someone tries to rob a bank but is caught before they can take any money, this is considered an attempted crime. The law often treats attempted crimes seriously, as they show intent to commit a harmful act. In many legal systems, the punishment for attempted crimes can be similar to that of completed crimes, depending on the circumstances. Factors such as the severity of the intended crime and the actions taken can influence the legal consequences for the individual involved.