Federal Internet or Computer Crimes

Technology has evolved to the point that people can stay connected with virtually anyone, anywhere in the world. This has opened up the possibility for criminals to act under the shield of the Internet, computer, or any of a myriad of electronic devices. With just a few clicks of the mouse, one can access detailed information about anyone. It is this kind of ready access to information which can land people in hot water with the federal government. The laws related Internet and computer crimes are complex and constantly changing. If you find yourself accused of such a crime, you must take it seriously as the penalties can be quite harsh. This is why you will want to have a professional and experienced trial attorney working on your case from the beginning.

Common Types of Cases

The FBI is typically the federal agency responsible for pursuing Internet and computer related criminal cases. They will vigorously pursue any person which they believe to be using the Internet to commit any manner of crime. With the spike in technology, such investigations and leveled accusations have increased dramatically across the country in recent years. At the current time, most of these cases fall into one of three categories.

Identity Theft

As its name implies, this is a charge leveled against a person who is accused of taking on the identity of another individual. If the Internet was used in order to gather this information about another person, then a federal computer related crime is believed to have taken place.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You discovered that someone used your home Wi-Fi network to access and distribute stolen financial data, and now federal investigators have seized your computers and router as evidence. Your name appears on the IP address logs, even though you had no knowledge of the illegal activity.

Can I be charged with a federal computer crime even if someone else used my network without my knowledge?

Attorney's Answer

Under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. § 1030), prosecutors must prove that you knowingly and intentionally accessed a computer without authorization or exceeded authorized access to obtain protected information. Simply being the registered owner of an IP address or Wi-Fi network does not establish criminal intent, and your attorney can challenge the government's evidence linking you personally to the illegal activity. However, federal agencies like the FBI and Secret Service take these cases seriously, and even an investigation can result in asset seizures under 18 U.S.C. § 1030(i). You need experienced legal counsel immediately to protect your rights during the investigation and prevent charges from being filed based on circumstantial digital evidence.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

Peer to Peer Networks Used in an Illegal Fashion