Technology has many benefits, but it can also offer some the opportunity to engage in activities that are not appropriate or legal. Cybercrime is a growing area of concern for the federal government, and the various agencies that investigate and prosecute cybercrimes take these cases very seriously. If you are facing allegations of any type of cybercrime, it is in your interests to take your case seriously.
Computer crimes may seem harmless because the people affected are often unknown and unseen. Victims may not suffer physically, but cybercrime can lead to financial loss and more. If you are under investigation or facing formal charges for computer-based crimes, you could be facing time behind bars and penalties that can change the course of your life.
Types of cybercrime
Computer crimes is a term used to describe a broad range of criminal offenses. Many of them involve fraud or an attempt to accomplish financial gain. They all involve the use of the computer or internet. Some of the most common types of computer crimes include:
- Intentionally introducing a virus into a computer or system
- Using a computer to commit fraud
- Improperly accessing a computer or system without permission
- Interfering with another party’s use of a computer or system
- Using a computer or the internet to steal sensitive information
- Using encryption in order to commit a crime
- Falsifying information about the source of an email
- Modifying, damaging, stealing or changing a computer program
One growing area of cybercrime is cyberbullying. This happens when someone uses a social media platform or other type of internet-based method of communication to bully someone. This is especially prominent with teenagers and young adults, and there have been cases where this behavior resulted in criminal charges.
Protecting your future interests
If you are facing allegations of committing some type of computer crime, you do not have to face the potential penalties alone. A conviction can lead to the loss of your personal freedom and future opportunities, and a strong defense strategy is essential.
It is in your interests to seek defense counsel as soon as possible after an arrest or even while still under investigation. With the help of an attorney, you can effectively confront the case against you and possibly mitigate some of the penalties you are facing. You would be wise not to delay in getting the help you need and deserve.