Computer Crimes are generally defined as criminal activity involving an information technology infrastructure, including illegal access (unauthorized access), illegal interception data interference (unauthorized damaging, deletion, deterioration, alteration or suppression of computer data), systems interference (interfering with the functioning of a computer system), misuse of devices, forgery (ID theft), and electronic fraud. The criminal activity involved in a computer crime occurs where a computer or network is the source, tool, target, or place of a crime. With more and more people and business using computers every day, computer crime has become a major issue.
Traditional crimes have blossomed and been transformed across computer networks. Fraud, theft, blackmail, forgery, and embezzlement can all be done with just the click of a few buttons. The hacking of people’s personal information is also a major criminal enterprise that can result in total identity theft, while entire hacking organizations have infiltrated and accessed sensitive corporate, government and military files.
Copyright infringement has becomes so major over computer networks that the entire industry has been re-defined. In addition, many cases of child pornography and human smuggling are aided by computer networks.
Computer Crime Penalties
Computer crime and internet crime charges are always to federal jurisdiction per the federal level, or interstate nature, of computer communication. In addition, as the years have progressed, legislatures have ratified more and more pertinent laws regarding more specific computer crimes and fraudulent actions using a computer. Moreover, wide varieties of penalties are possible for persons charged with computer crimes, especially depending on the extent of the alleged crime.
Possible Penalties
- Federal incarceration sentences carrying penalties up to life imprisonment
- Fines for restitution, court costs, and damages incurred by victims of crimes
- Civil litigation from private and corporate entities affected economically from crimes
- Death penalty charges may prove applicable in instances of computer crime relating to matters affecting national security or treason
Computer Crime Sentencing
A judge presiding over a computer crimes case can grant leniency based on many factors. These include the severity of the crime, the nature of the crime and the size and scope of the computer crime operation. Additionally, if a defendant cooperates with the prosecution and provides information about possible computer crime criminal enterprises or gives information pertaining to other defendants, a judge can soften a sentence or drop it all together. Thus, it is imperative one accused of such a crime seeks legal counsel to advise them on all their rights and options.
Can A Lawyer Help with Defending Computer Crime Charges?
Computer crimes are seen as a serious threat to our society, corporations, and even, national security, and in turn, are given harsh treatment to deter future crimes from defendants or copycats. As such, if charged with a computer crime, you should immediate legal representation to ensure your rights and interests are protected.
- If you need help with a Federal Criminal charge, Submit Your Case for a Free Review from a local Criminal Defense Lawyer.
