Computer crimes carry harsh penalties
Certain computer crimes, like downloading or distributing child pornography, or using the internet to participate in computer fraud schemes, will bring a great deal of attention from police and prosecutors.
April 09, 2013
Computer crimes carry harsh penaltiesArticle provided by James S. Friedman, LLC
Visit us at http://www.jfriedlawfirm.com
The internet has changed the way we live. It has made it incredibly easy for individuals to stay connected with one another, even during the busiest of times. Many people work in occupations that depend on the internet to assist in the completion of daily tasks. Communities nationwide have realized how important it is to allow residence to have the systems in place that permit internet access.
Most people use the internet for news and entertainment, or to email friends. This will likely never draw any interest from law enforcement officers. However, certain computer crimes, like downloading or distributing child pornography, or using the internet to participate in computer fraud schemes, will bring a great deal of attention from police and prosecutors.
Federal laws place strict penalties on those caught possessing or transmitting images of child pornography. Often, law enforcement officers will be monitoring file-sharing sites looking to see who is in possession of images that are known to be unlawful. They may attempt to lure individuals into sending them additional images in an effort to strengthen the evidence that they may already have.
Internet scams can range from identity theft to soliciting money for goods and services that will never be provided. These scams often attempt to entice unaware or new internet users into releasing personal information online. This is then used to create a new identity or drain money from bank accounts.
If convicted of these crimes, individuals will be looking at federal prison time, in additional to high fines. Those convicted of child pornography offenses will have to register as a sex offender, which will last long after any prison sentence is completed. This can make it difficult to find work, or to find a place to live. Computer fraud cases could result in individuals having to pay restitution to victims after they are released from prison.
It can be extremely difficult to contest these cases. Often, a high degree of technical knowledge will be necessary to aid the individual who is facing the charges. Knowing how to prepare a defense against the accusations will require a comprehensive review of the entire situation to learn how best to proceed.
If arrested, do not speak with the police. They are only trying to make the prosecution's job easier, and will use any information that you provide against you. Those accused of computer crimes should speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney to understand the options that are available. It is important to make informed decisions about the potential penalties that you may be facing.