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Philadelphia Federal Cyber Crime Charges: Hacking, Identity Theft, Stalking
Philadelphia Federal Cyber Crime Charges: Hacking, Identity Theft, Stalking
Cyber crime has become a growing issue in Philadelphia and across the country. With more of our lives happening online, there are increasing opportunities for criminals to exploit cyberspace for illegal activities. Federal prosecutors in Philadelphia have been ramping up efforts to crack down on major cyber crimes happening in the area.
Hacking Charges
One major category of cyber crime charges in Philadelphia involves hacking. This includes illegally accessing a computer system to steal data, install malware, or cause other damage. Some high-profile hacking cases prosecuted in Philadelphia federal court have included:
- The leader of an international hacking group called Infraud Organization that stole and sold tens of millions of credit card numbers.
- A hacker who breached company servers to steal over 1,300 FTP credentials and demanded ransom payments in bitcoin to return the data.
- Members of hacktivist groups like Anonymous and LulzSec targeting government and corporate servers.
The penalties for federal hacking crimes depend on factors like the value of damage caused and can include substantial prison time. Even unsuccessful hacking attempts can lead to charges if there was criminal intent.
Identity Theft
Another major cyber crime issue in Philadelphia is identity theft, which involves stealing someone’s personal information to commit fraud. Federal identity theft cases in Philadelphia have included:
- A man who stole Social Security numbers to file over 1,000 fraudulent tax returns seeking $12 million in refunds.
- An identity theft ring that opened credit cards using victims’ names and racked up over $400,000 in purchases.
- A bank employee who stole customer data and sold it on the dark web to buy luxury goods.
Identity thieves face charges like wire fraud, access device fraud, aggravated identity theft, and more. Penalties can include years in prison plus massive restitution payments.
Online Stalking and Harassment
Philadelphia federal prosecutors have also gone after cyber stalking, which is using electronic channels to harass, threaten or intimidate someone. Major cases have included:
- A man who sent threatening emails to his ex-girlfriend, hacked her online accounts, and posted her personal information publicly.
- A revenge porn case where a jilted lover posted nude photos of his ex online.
- A cyberbullying case involving harassing messages sent anonymously over social media.
Charges may include cyberstalking, interstate communications threats, and interstate violation of privacy. Penalties can include years in prison, especially if threats are deemed credible.
Defending Against Cyber Crime Charges
Facing federal charges for cyber crimes in Philadelphia can be scary. But an experienced lawyer can help craft a strong defense to fight the allegations. Some potential defenses include:
- You didn’t actually commit the crime – Perhaps evidence will show the hacking, identity theft or harassment was actually done by someone else using your device or accounts without your knowledge.
- Lack of criminal intent – Prosecutors must prove you knowingly and willfully committed the illegal cyber activities. But perhaps it was just an accident, mistake or prank gone wrong.
- Unlawful police conduct – If evidence against you was obtained illegally through things like warrantless searches, it may be excluded.
An attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or sentencing leniency. This may require cooperation, agreeing to pay restitution, or taking responsibility through a guilty plea in return for a lighter punishment.
What the Future Holds
Cyber crime will likely continue growing as more of our lives happen online. Both criminals and federal law enforcement are becoming more sophisticated in their technological capabilities. Philadelphia in particular is a hot spot, with its dense population and many colleges producing tech talent.
Regular citizens can help protect themselves by using strong passwords, installing antivirus software, avoiding sketchy links, and monitoring financial statements. But for those who do get caught up in cyber crime, either as perpetrators or victims, reaching out to an experienced attorney should be the first step.
With vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and cyber security specialists, hopefully the worst impacts of cyber crime can be mitigated. But it will remain an issue requiring attention and resources for the foreseeable future.
Citations
Three Members of International Computer Hacking Ring Plead Guilty to Hacking and Intellectual Property Theft Charges
Member of Hacking Group Pleads Guilty to Hacking the U.S. Department of Defense and Microsoft