Internet Fraud

Internet fraud is a significant problem in our increasingly digital world. It covers a wide range of illegal online activities, including financial schemes, website hacking, and the spread of computer viruses. Criminals use the internet to trick people, causing them to lose money, property, or legal rights. As we rely more on the internet for everything from online shopping to daily communication, these fraudulent activities have grown. Tracking down and prosecuting these criminals is often difficult, leading to major financial losses for both individuals and companies.

What Are the Consequences of Internet Fraud?

If you use the internet to commit fraud and illegally access someone’s money, you could face serious charges from the federal government for various internet-related crimes. In this situation, it is crucial to get legal help from a Wheeling criminal lawyer to protect your rights and build a strong defense against these allegations.

What Is Federal Internet Fraud?

Federal internet fraud is any illegal online act done with the intention of defrauding someone to gain something of value. The federal government defines this as accessing a protected computer without permission or going beyond your authorized access level. A Wheeling DUI attorney can help you understand the charges against you. Common examples of internet fraud schemes include:

• Hacking into a computer to steal money from a bank or business.
• Illegally accessing a computer to take personal information, like credit card numbers and passwords.
• Using phishing scams to trick people into providing their credit card details on fake websites.

A Look at the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA)

Federal laws addressing computer fraud are spread across different statutes, but the most important one is the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA). This law was passed by Congress in 1986 and has been updated several times since. It is the main tool federal prosecutors use for computer-related crimes, including fraud. The CFAA was created to fight new types of criminal activity by making computer trespassing a federal crime, especially when it involves unauthorized access and malicious intent. Seeking advice from a Wheeling criminal lawyer can provide clarity on how this act applies to your case.

Under the CFAA, the following computer systems are considered protected, and breaking into them is a federal crime:

• Computers used for interstate and foreign commerce
• Bank computers
• Federal government computers

The penalties for violating the CFAA vary based on the specifics of the crime. For example, someone who illegally accesses a computer system to commit fraud or cause damage could face up to 5 years in prison and significant fines.

What Are the Penalties for Internet Fraud?

The legal system for internet fraud is complex, and navigating it requires an experienced lawyer. At Logue Law Group, our Wheeling criminal lawyer team specializes in defending clients accused of internet fraud. We work to understand your legal options and represent your case thoroughly to get the best possible result for you.

How Can a Wheeling Internet Fraud Attorney Help You?

Every year, many people become victims of internet fraud. Cunning scam companies and fraudsters use the internet for their illegal activities, from fraudulent sales to misleading claims, which violates consumer privacy. At Logue Law Group, our carefully selected defense attorneys use effective strategies to protect clients from these unlawful practices. A Wheeling DUI attorney can also assist with related legal issues you may be facing.

Schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable internet fraud lawyer in the Wheeling area by contacting us online or calling 844.PITT.DUI. Our dedicated legal team is ready to defend your rights and offer expert guidance through every step of your legal process.