New York Computer Fraud

With computers drastically increasing in popularity over the past few decades, computer related crimes are more common than ever before. These offenses can involve a complex crime, or involve something that is relatively simple. These offenses however, can result in state and federal charges. If you have been charged with a computer crime it is important to speak with a New York Computer Fraud Lawyer from our legal team to ensure that your interests are protected. If you are convicted, you could be facing time in prison, large fines and probation. Contact Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC for sound legal guidance.

This offense is classified as White Collar Crime, and can be prosecuted in both state and federal court. These crimes can involve many different fraudulent activities that are committed to take, destroy, or undermine information or use the information in an unlawful way. This crime is closely related with other offenses such as embezzlement, bank fraud, security fraud and Bribery.

This crime can include the following activities:

• Hacking or using spyware
• Sending a virus to harm other party
• Accessing computers to illegally access government, business or medical records
• Accessing a computer to commit fraudulent activity
• Emailing fraudulent investment schemes
• Accessing another’s personal information
• Causing damage to government computer system
• Fraudulently buying goods or services via computer

Computer hacking is a commonly seen crime in New York. Hacking is the deliberate and unauthorized use, taking or disclosure of computer data. This crime is committed when a person knowingly and willingly attempts to, or achieves access to computer programs or information residing on a computer. The punishment for this offense and other computer crimes can be very serious so it is important to take prompt action and speak with our legal team for assistance.

Computer and internet fraud has become so commonplace that law enforcement is keeps a close watch on these types of activities. A special government task force has been created to address these crimes. The U.S. Department of Justice posts cases on their website. Some of these include U.S. v Flury, where the defendant was sentenced to 32 months in prison and charged with a $300,000 fine, and U.S. v Arobo, where the defendant was sentenced to 30 months in prison and a $500,000 fine. The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) is the main federal statute used by government to enforce these offenses. This statute deals with illegally accessing information and intruding via the computer.

The Patriot Act has recently increased the penalties for these crimes. It raised the maximum penalty to 10 years for a first offense, and 20 years for a second violation. Violators need only to intend to cause damage. It also allows for enhanced penalties when the crime involves the government or military computers.

Defending these charges can be challenging, because it involves computer information in addition to financial information. Depending in the charges, a case can be filed in state as well as federal court. These offenses can result in civil prosecution, a criminal conviction, prison time and substantial monetary fines. These consequences exist even for a minor offense. Even if the charges against you are false, these allegations can seriously damage your professional and personal relationships. These consequences exist even for a minor offense. Speak with our legal team for guidance and a free consultation. We have office locations near you, including offices Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn and the Bronx. We also have locations in Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island, and Westchester County. Call us today to schedule your appointment at 800.696.9529.