Computer Crime (18 U.S.C. 1030)

Computer crime is an area of the law in which the government appears to be playing catch-up with the growth in new technologies. Some variations of computer crime are so new that there are no specific laws to address them, and general laws in existence do not seem adequate to proscribe the particular illicit activities.

Generally, conduct specifically outlawed by federal statute includes an intentional or knowing access of a computer to obtain confidential national security information, financial information of a financial institution or of a credit card issuer, information of a federal department or agency, or to commit fraud.

The California Penal Code also includes provisions covering computer crime. It is illegal to knowingly introduce a contaminant into a computer, computer system, or computer network. In addition, it is against state law to knowingly and without permission access a computer and damage, delete, destroy, or use any data, computer, computer system or computer network. It is unlawful to use computers as part of a scheme to defraud or to wrongfully control or obtain money, property, or data. A violation of this law subjects the offender to a range of sanctions depending on the specific violation, the value of computer services used, the amount of the injury, and whether it is the defendant's first violation of the statute. The maximum punishment is a fine not exceeding $10,000, imprisonment in the state prison for three years, or both.

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

When facing computer crime charges, a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney will be your only means of avoiding a conviction and serious penalties. At Diamond & Associates, we understand that your future is in our hands when you choose our firm for your legal representation. We welcome you to contact us for a free consultation, to find out what can be done to defend your rights. With our experience and resources at your side, you can fight your computer crime charges - and WIN.

Contact a Los Angeles computer crime lawyer at Diamond & Associates today!