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NYC Computer Fraud Lawyers
Within the last two decades, computers have drastically blown up in popularity, but unfortunately, that has spurned forward a new type of crime known as computer-related crimes. They have become more common than ever in New York State, and these crimes could be complex or involve something quite simple. The seriousness of these crimes, however, can result in state and even federal charges. For anyone who has been charged with a computer-related crime, they should hire Spodek Law Group immediately. You need a qualified legal team that understands computer fraud laws, and they will help to ensure that your rights are never disregarded.
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The Penalties for Computer Fraud Convictions
Depending on the type of computer fraud committed and how many times you have been convicted of it, you could be facing years in prison, exorbitant fines and even probation. As a Class B felony, you could face as much as 20 years in a federal penitentiary and up to a $15,000 fine. For a Class B misdemeanor, you could face up to six months in prison and a $1,000 fine.
Computer Fraud Charges: What Do They Involve?
Computer fraud charges can take the form of a variety of fraudulent activities. It could involve destroying or undermining the information or using it in an unlawful fashion. This crime has often been linked with other offenses like bank fraud, embezzlement and bribery. Sometimes the crime will include other unlawful activities like:
- Using spyware or hacking
- Sending viruses that will hurt the other party
- Getting access to computers like businesses, government or even medical records
- Accessing computers to commit fraudulent activities
- Emailing a fraudulent investment scheme
- Buying services or good fraudulently through the computer
Computer Hacking
A crime that has become common in New York, hacking has the intention of gaining unauthorized access to something and taking the data or giving full disclosure of the data. Whenever a person willingly or knowingly tries to gain access to a computer, the punishment for this crime can be extraordinarily serious. As the defendant, you should take fast action and speak with our legal team of representatives to handle the problem.
Close Monitoring from Law Enforcement
Because of how internet and computer fraud has become so widespread, law enforcement has begun to keep a close watch on anyone who conducts these activities, and they will face serious charges. In fact, a special government task force has been designed specifically for handling and addressing these crimes. In one of these cases, the U.S. v Flury, the defendant was given 32 months in prison and charged $300,000. In the case called U.S. v Arobo, the defendant was given 30 months in prison, and he had to pay a $500,000 fine. The main federal statute set in place is called the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act or the CFAA. This enforces the offenses that deal with getting illegal access to information and intruding on things through the computer.
Recently, the Patriot Act has increased the penalties for those who commit cyber crimes. In fact, the maximum penalty was raised to 10 years for a first-time offender, and a person could face up to 20 years in prison if they get charged a second time. A person only needs to have the intention of causing damage to be charged with a crime like this. Whenever the crime involves the government or the crime happened with military computers, the charges will be even worse. If you have been arrested and charged with computer fraud, you should speak with Spodek Law Group today! Don’t wait because the longer you wait, the worse it can be.