Cyber Crimes Attorney In Jacksonville Defending Clients Charged With Computer & Internet Fraud

Solid defense for cybercrime charges

Computer fraud crimes comprise a wide range of illegal acts involving computers, computer systems, and computer networks. Those guilty of computer fraud include people who hack into (illegally enter) sites or whole systems as well as those who introduce fraudulent recordswith the intent of causing harm, damage or destruction.  These acts can cripple entire networks and expose the confidential online information of millions of people, so the sentences for conviction are severe. If you’re accused of what Florida law terms an “offense against computer users,” it’s important for you to seek legal help as soon as possible.

It is vital that you safeguard your rights.  Never speak to a government agent or police officer alone.  Always get a lawyer to protect yourself.  Don’t think that if you have nothing to hide you can convince a government agent or police officer you are innocent.  At Fallgatter Catlin & Varon, P.A., our Jacksonville white-collar crime defense attorneys know that computer and Internet fraud charges are serious. If you face these charges, you require experienced and skilled representation by attorneys who are knowledgeable of the current laws and can anticipate the prosecution’s strategy.  In preparing your defense, our legal team can try to show that you did not knowingly or willfully participate in the offense or that you were authorized to use another person’s computer by that owner.

Cybercrimes and sentences

The Florida Computer Crimes Act was enacted to address the growing number of crimes involving computers—crimes that affect the government, public and private sectors.Internet fraud and scams to rob unsuspecting people online are especially rampant, with new schemes popping up every day. Computers offer criminals countless ways to deceive people, and some of the most common fraudulent practices include:

• Phishing
• Spam emails
• Identity theft
• Malware and spyware
• Internet hoaxes

Phishing emails, whichattempt to acquire confidential information from computer users by masquerading as legitimate companies or government entities, have been known to trick even the most computer-savvy people. That’s just one of the reasons that Florida’s offense against computer users is a third-degree felony, punishable by:

• Imprisonment up to five years
• Fines up to $5,000
• Or both

If the fraudulent offense causes more than $5,000 in damage, interrupts the operations of government or disrupts public services, it becomes a second-degree felony, punishable by

• Imprisonment up to 15 years
• Fines up to $10,000
• Or both

If human life is endangered, a first-degree felony is charged, which carries a sentence of:

• Imprisonment up to 30 years
• Fines up to $10,000
• Or both

Computer fraud is a serious offense, requiring a solid defense. If you’ve been charged, contact us to learn what your options are and how we can help.

Contact an experienced Jacksonville white-collar crime defense lawyer immediately

Contact us online or call the offices of Fallgatter Catlin & Varon, P.A., today at 904-353-5800 to schedule a consultation at no cost or obligation to discuss your computer and Internet fraud charges.