Internet Crimes

Computer and internet crimes carry serious penalties that should never be underestimated. Often called “cybercrimes,” these offenses are usually treated as felonies. Because the internet has no physical borders, it’s surprisingly easy to end up facing federal charges on top of state charges. When you’re charged at the federal level, both state and federal resources are brought to bear against you. A cybercrime conviction—especially one tied to a sex offense—can devastate your personal life and your career. For these reasons, getting trusted legal guidance early on makes all the difference.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the computer crimes that can lead to federal charges:

• Unauthorized access of a computer
• Computer tampering
• Illegal downloading
• Cyber fraud
• Identity theft
• Unlawful duplication of software
• Launching malware and viruses
• Cyber terrorism
• Online stalking

An Overview of Internet Crimes

Computer Trespassing: This charge applies when a person accesses someone else’s computer without permission—stealing valuable data such as credit card numbers or passwords, or electronically siphoning funds from banks and businesses. The motivations behind this crime vary widely, from money troubles to revenge, political agendas, or simple bad intentions. If you’ve been accused, a skilled New Castle criminal lawyer can help you understand your options.

Computer Tampering: Interfering with computer programs or networks by going beyond your authorized access falls under this charge. How harsh the punishment is depends on both your intent and the amount of damage done. Even so, an experienced attorney can fight diligently on your behalf to challenge these allegations.

Software Piracy: Making unauthorized copies of copyrighted software, or duplicating software altogether, is illegal and may result in charges of unlawful duplication. This category includes counterfeiting, unbundling, softloading, and internet downloading. Facing one of these charges is stressful, but a knowledgeable New Castle DUI attorney and criminal defense team can guide you through the process.

Copyright Infringement: If you become caught up in a copyright infringement case—downloading copyrighted ebooks, movies, or music without permission, sharing copyrighted materials over email, or posting them on forums for free download—you could face serious legal consequences. These actions break both state and federal laws, and federal convictions tend to come with much steeper penalties.

Using computers and email unlawfully: Another common online offense is using computers and email to deceive or disrupt others. This includes accessing confidential information stored on a computer without permission and deliberately deleting data tied to specific systems. When the stakes are this high, having a dedicated New Castle criminal lawyer in your corner is essential.

It’s important to remember that internet crimes break both state and federal laws. Keep in mind, though, that federal convictions carry far harsher penalties than state convictions. If you or someone you care about is facing any kind of internet crime charge, you need to act quickly to protect your rights. That’s exactly where the Logue Law Group steps in.

Drawing on our deep experience in litigation, we work hard to build the strongest possible defense and minimize the consequences whenever a full dismissal isn’t possible. Our team is well prepared to handle a wide range of internet criminal charges, including:

• Hacking
• Internet harassment
• Solicitation of a minor
• Fraud
• Internet Crimes

We can’t stress enough how important it is to take early, decisive, and deliberate action in cases like these. A strong defense strategy needs to be in place right from the very beginning. The sooner you reach out, the sooner a trusted New Castle DUI attorney can begin defending your future.

To schedule a free initial consultation and discuss your internet crime charges—including child pornography charges—with an experienced criminal lawyer serving the New Castle and Lawrence County area, contact us online or call 412.387.6901.

For the legal definition and examples of internet crimes, please refer to the Pennsylvania Code, Title 204, Section 303.2.