What Are Computer Crimes?

Computer crime, also known as “cybercrime,” is a broad category of white collar crimes, which involve the use of a computer or the internet in their commission. While some computer crimes such as larceny or fraud are still illegal under both state and federal law even without the use of a computer, other illegal acts under this category can be unique to computers, such as hacking. Regardless of the type, any computer crime charge can carry serious consequences and must be handled by an experienced attorney in order to be successfully defended against.

If you have been charged with a computer crime or are even under investigation, contact Pissetzky Law LLC today. Backed by more than two decade’s worth of legal experience and a proven history of case victories, our team of hard-hitting Chicago federal crimes attorneys can provide the aggressive legal counsel you need to minimize your chances of conviction.

If you have been charged with a federal computer crime, contact us online or call 312-239-8292 today to find out more about how we can help.

Types Of Computer Crimes

With technology advancing at an unprecedented rate, many states’ legislation related to computer crimes is outdated. In the state of Illinois, computer crimes are categorized into misdemeanors and felonies under the Illinois Computer Crime Prevention Law (ICCPL).

Under ICCPL, computer crimes are broken down into three categories:

• Computer tampering: This may include gaining illegal access to computer, program, or data without the permission of the owner. Introducing a virus or other harmful program into a computer system may also be charged under this category.
• Aggravated computer tampering: Illegally manipulating a computer with the intended effect of disrupting or interfering with the operations or services of a government agency or creating a strong probability of death or bodily harm to others may be charged as aggravated computer tampering.
• Computer fraud: Any crime that involves the use of a computer to fraudulently obtain or deprive money, goods, or services from another party is considered computer fraud.

Other crimes that may be committed using a computer include cyberbullying or harassment, possessing or distributing child pornography, or computer-engineered hate crimes. Depending on the circumstances, a computer crime conviction can expose a defendant to major penalties such as exorbitant fines, prison time, loss of professional licenses, probation, and more.

You Are Innocent Until Proven Guilty

Although our nation’s criminal justice system may revolve around the principle that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty, merely the suggestion that a person may have committed a computer crime can be enough to introduce doubts in the minds of the jury.

At Pissetzky Law LLC, our Chicago criminal defense lawyers understand the severity of your situation and are prepared to stand by your side every step of the way during this difficult time. Having earned a “Superb” Avvo Rating, multiple Super Lawyers inclusions, and an extensive collection of five-star client testimonials for our unmatched skill, we have what it takes to ensure you are treated with the respect and dignity you deserve.

Accused of a federal computer crime? Your freedom may be in jeopardy. Contact us online today to discuss your legal options.

Are Computer Crimes Charged As Misdemeanors Or Felonies In Illinois?

Under Illinois law, computer crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the category the crime falls under. Some examples of what can be charged as a felony include accessing a computer and obtaining money or control of money illegally, accessing a computer with the purpose to scheme, deceive or defraud and deleting or destroying data with the purpose to scheme, deceive or defraud. The classification of the felony depends on the number of prior offenses and the value of the money, services or property obtained.