Internet Crime Attorney Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fighting Cybercrime Charges in Broward County

These days, there are a wide array of criminal offenses that involve the internet. Although this area of the law is fairly new, the number of people facing charges for internet crimes is rapidly growing across the nation. Internet crime charges are aggressively pursued by law enforcement agencies, as many internet crimes are federal offenses.

A conviction can come with severe penalties that could have a devastating impact on you, your family, your career, and your future opportunities. That is why it is important to speak with a Fort Lauderdale internet crime attorney at Hager & Schwartz, P.A. as soon as possible. Our firm can build a strong defense capable of withstanding the prosecution’s case against you.

Call (954) 840-8713 today to get started. We are available 24/7 to take your call.

Types of Internet Crimes

Internet crimes can take many different forms. In most cases, reported cybercrimes include theft of intellectual property rights, computer intrusions, international money laundering, financial espionage, and online extortion. Some are sexual in nature while others involve hacking or the unauthorized use of others’ computers or personal accounts.

Our Fort Lauderdale internet crime lawyers handle a variety of cybercrime cases, including:

• Internet fraud
• Computer hacking
• Internet sex crimes
• Stalking
• Identity theft
• “Phishing” for personal or sensitive information
• Child pornography
• Online solicitation of a minor
• Internet investment fraud
• Internet hate crimes
• Cyberbullying
• Phishing
• Reshipping
• Spam
• Payment fraud
• Auction fraud
• Counterfeit goods
• Non-delivery goods
• Romance scams

Law enforcement offers are instructing people who believe they have been victimized by cybercrime to report their suspicions to the FBI. As a result, prosecutors will begin working diligently to ensure all information is examined and exposed as soon as possible.

Cybercrimes in Florida

The Florida Computer Crimes Act was designed to protect individuals and businesses from hackers and cybercrime rings. This Act differentiates between two types of offenses: crimes against intellectual property and crimes against computer users. Cybercrimes in Florida are prosecuted as felonies.

If convicted, a cybercrime offender may face a third degree felony along with the following penalties:

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

If the offense caused more than $5,000 in damage, a convict can face the following penalties:

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

Florida Crimes Against Intellectual Property

A person can be found guilty of committing a cybercrime against someone’s intellectual property is they knowingly commit certain offenses without authorization.

Crimes against intellectual property may include:

• Introducing viruses that affect data, programs, computer systems, networks, or devices
• Willfully destroying data, programs, documentation, networks, systems, or devices
• Stealing or disclosing confidential data

Florida Crimes Against Computer Users

You can be charged with and convicted of a cybercrime against a computer user or a computer network if you knowingly commit an offense without authorization.

Crimes against computer users may include:

• Accessing a computer or network without permission
• Disrupting or denying data transmission
• Destroying or stealing equipment used in a computer system, network, or device
• Introducing a virus or computer contaminant into a single computer or a network
• Illegal surveillance either through audio or video

Florida Penalties for Internet Crimes

Internet crimes should be taken seriously, as the potential penalties upon conviction are harsh. Punishments can include the following:

• Prison time
• Probation
• Restitution (in a fraud or theft crime)
• Sex offender registry (in an internet sex crime)
• Fines
• Community service

In addition, a criminal record can damage your reputation and make it difficult for you to find a job, rent a home, or get a loan in the future.

Defending Against Internet Crime Charges in Broward County

There are many possible defenses to internet offenses and cybercrimes. At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we use our extensive combined experience and work with outside experts to develop thoughtful defense strategies.

Potential defenses for cybercrimes include:

• Arguing that there is insufficient evidence to link you to the crime
• Highlighting that you were not aware your actions were illegal
• Proving that you were authorized to access the computer or network

You can be confident that with nearly 50 years of experience, our team has the skill and dedication necessary to defend you against your charges and safeguard your future.

Thoughtful Representation for Broward County Residents

If you have been arrested and are facing criminal charges for a cybercrime, the time is now to contact our firm. As former prosecutors, we can often anticipate the opposition’s strategy, allowing us to better prepare our cases and build a strong defense on your behalf. You have worked hard to earn your reputation – let our Fort Lauderdale internet crime attorneys help protect it.

Contact Hager & Schwartz, P.A. at (954) 840-8713 today.