The United States government enforces stringent federal laws against the use of the internet, computers, or computer networks for illicit activities in its ongoing battle against internet and cybercrimes. The criminal repercussions associated with an internet crime conviction can be devastating, with certain severe internet-related offenses carrying potential life imprisonment.
If you are under suspicion or prosecution for an online crime in federal court, having an experienced, trial-tested defense attorney by your side is crucial. This professional can adeptly navigate the complex federal criminal justice system and bolster your chances of a favorable trial outcome. Contact Chambers Law Firm today at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
Understanding Internet Crimes: The Wide Net
The term “internet crime” covers a broad spectrum of criminal activity carried out through the internet. It falls under the wider umbrella of cybercrime, which encompasses any crime involving the use of a computer or computer network, or those targeting a computer. Given the rapid growth and ubiquitous use of the internet, most cybercrimes today are classified as online crimes.
Below are examples of offenses that may instigate an investigation and potential prosecution for online or cyber-crime:
- Identity theft
- Money laundering
- Password theft and trafficking
- Theft of computer information
- Phishing
- Unauthorized data alteration on a computer
- Attacks against the internet
- Skimming
- Harassment, threats, or bullying
- Internet-based solicitation of minors
- Investment fraud
- Child pornography
- Fraudulent internet auctions
- Hacking
- Credit card theft
- Extortion
Internet crimes are guided by federal laws applicable to diverse online activities, ranging from emails and websites to using the internet for fraudulent acts or identity theft.
The Federal Dimension of Internet Crimes
While most states prohibit online crimes such as computer hacking and credit card fraud, these offenses are often prosecuted at the federal level under the jurisdiction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which has authority over the internet.
The federal government primarily targets large-scale online crimes aimed at defrauding individuals, businesses, or the government, such as money laundering and computer hacking schemes involving government networks. Nearly all crimes committed via the internet or a computer can be prosecuted as federal felonies, carrying severe penalties upon conviction.
Penalties for Online Crimes
Internet crimes, computer crimes, and cybercrimes constitute the fastest-growing domains in law, and the federal government has taken a staunch stance against them. Convicted offenders face severe lifetime penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment, probation, restitution, and community service.
Mounting a Defense Against Internet Crime Charges
Being charged with an internet-related crime like fraud or identity theft in federal court means facing the formidable resources of the federal government, which could potentially incarcerate you for life, depending on the severity of the alleged crime.
Nonetheless, all defendants in criminal cases are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Irrespective of the severity of your charges, your federal defense attorney can formulate a strategy to counter the prosecution’s case and enhance your chances of acquittal at trial. Potential defense tactics against allegations of online crime include:
- False accusation
- Mistaken identity
- Entrapment
- Evidence collected unlawfully by the prosecution
- Unwitting involvement in an online crime
These defense strategies are just a few of the options we will explore when you bring your case to Chambers Law Firm. Call us today at 714-760-4088 to schedule your free legal consultation.
