Computer Crimes: An In-Depth Legal Explanation

It’s no secret that the Internet is one of the most useful tools that people can take advantage of. But, using a computer also comes with a large amount of responsibility.

As such, some actions that people perform with computers can be considered crimes. Not everyone knows everything that they should about this topic, though.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about computer crimes.

So, What Exactly Are Computer Crimes?

As the name implies, these transgressions involve the misuse of a computer in a way that breaks the law. Interestingly, though, this category is broad enough to include crimes that don’t involve the direct use of a computer.

Put simply, a computer crime can be thought of as an action that uses the Internet or a computer in order to intentionally infringe upon the law. 

For example, someone who runs an online store that sells counterfeit or stolen goods may not actively use a computer during each transaction. This is particularly true if the store has been established well enough so that sales are mostly automated.

But, since the Internet is the medium in which these fraudulent transactions take place, it’s still considered a computer crime.

What Are Common Examples?

As previously mentioned, the legal definition of this crime is relatively expansive. So, there is a vast number of scenarios that could play out where computer crime becomes a factor.

Let’s take a look at a handful of common situations where this type of crime comes into play.

Cyberbullying

This term refers to aggressive or abusive behavior through the use of computers or similar devices that have Internet access. One of the most common situations is when someone is harassed on social media.

In many cases, the victim can block the aggressor in order to prevent that individual from contacting them in the future. If all contact stops here, then the situation likely won’t be defined as cyberbullying by law-enforcement.

If, however, the aggressor then makes multiple alternate accounts to get in contact with the victim, they could be charged with a crime.

Preying Upon Minors

Unfortunately, the vast utility that the Internet provides also allows dangerous individuals to get in contact with minors.

This crime refers to someone who uses the Internet to establish inappropriate contact with an underage person. This typically includes soliciting photos, making lewd comments or advances, etc.

Grooming also falls into this category, which is the process of slowly normalizing inappropriate behavior between an adult and a minor. So, this often applies to an adult who consistently reaches out to a minor in a seemingly-friendly way.

This is especially true if the adult in question regularly attempts to learn more about the victim.

Identify Theft

Most of us are aware of the risks of identity theft. This is, of course, why most sites that host user accounts require passwords to meet certain criteria.

Someone who illicitly obtains personal information and then uses or distributes it is committing a serious computer crime that could have severe consequences for the victim. In extreme cases, hackers will breach a database in order to obtain this type of information.

Illegal Content Distribution

Unsurprisingly, those who illegally distribute content are categorized as this type of criminal. But, this also applies to people who simply maintain a platform that allows others to do so.

For example, someone who owns a site that allows users to illegally share files with each other is committing a computer crime even though they may not be directly participating. Similarly, those who illegally download content are also breaking the law.

How Is This Crime Punished?

Since the definition of computer crime is so broad, punishments can vary highly from one scenario to the next. For instance, someone who illegally downloads software could be ordered by a judge to pay a fine. Someone who hacks into a database that holds financial information is likely to go to prison.

Interestingly, it’s not uncommon for part of criminal punishment to include restrictions on computer use. Some people may avoid fines or jail time, but they may not be legally allowed to make use of a computer for a certain period of time. For particularly dangerous criminals, their computer use may be highly restricted for years afterward.

In the latter scenario, a criminal who is convicted of a large-scale cyber attack may serve time in prison. Then, they may have their computer use monitored by authorities indefinitely after their release.

What If I’ve Been Accused?

As with any crime, it’s in your best interest to contact a reputable computer crimes attorney immediately. If you’ve been accused of committing a computer crime, you should also avoid attempting to prove your innocence.

Even though you may be able to convey that no illicit activity has taken place on your machine, law-enforcement will always argue that you either destroyed or manipulated the evidence.

So, reach out to someone who specializes in this area law as soon as you find that you’ve been accused of a crime. They will ensure that you take the necessary steps to legally protect yourself.

Understanding These Crimes Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be.

With the above information about computer crimes in mind, you’ll be well on your way toward making decisions that help keep you out of trouble.

Want to learn more tips that can help you out in the future? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog.