New York City Computer and Internet Crime Lawyer

Online crime has grown in complexity over the years, and as a result, the state and federal investigators and attorneys who prosecute such crimes continue to push back with more sophisticated tactics. Now, “internet” or “computer” crimes include far more than just traditional desktop computers, but instead any kind of device(s), network, or equipment. As such, retaining a qualified internet crime lawyer in New York City can help defend against criminal charges associated with computer use and all its related charges.

Exercise your legal right and lean on an attorney who understands the landscape of online crime, helping you to build a sound and aggressive legal defense that can address the legal consequences you could be facing. 

Understanding Internet Crimes in New York

The New York Criminal Code outlines what is known as “Offenses Involving Computers” under Article 156. They are further broken down into crimes such as unauthorized use of a computer, computer trespass, computer tampering, unlawful duplication of computer-related material, criminal possession of computer-related material, and operating an unlawful electronic sweepstakes.

While these crimes are outlined on the New York State Senate website, there are many other crimes associated with computer use, including identity theft, larceny, forgery, and unlawful disclosure of an intimate image. Truly, cybercrime comes in endless different forms, as crime intersects with computer usage and could include more common and general terms like computer hacking, phishing, and unauthorized access.

Both individuals and businesses can find themselves wrapped up in cybercrimes, either facing or being accused of such crimes. In New York, these crimes are incredibly serious in nature, sometimes including felony charges with serious legal consequences, including fines and prison time. Federal prosecutors are known to have aggressive tactics for online crimes, often showing very little sympathy for such criminals. 

Common Types of Cybercrimes in New York City

These are some of the more common criminal charges that involve the use of a computer in New York.

• Identity Theft Charges in New York come in varying degrees of severity, where a computer could be used to assume another identity in an effort to obtain goods, services, money, or credit under someone else’s name. This type of fraud could, depending on severity, include misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. These charges could include a long list of monetary fines, including the possibility of several years in prison. Sometimes, identity theft could include supplementary charges as well.
• Online Fraud includes any type of fraud facilitated with the use of the internet, computer, or similar device. Any kind of “dishonest representation of fact” can be grouped into computer fraud and is sometimes generally referred to as computer hacking. Unlawful access to a device, server, or network, or unlawful interception of a message could all fall under the umbrella of online fraud.
• Cyberstalking in New York or online harassment often sees an individual hide behind the veil of the internet to intimidate, threaten, or cause fear and unwanted emotional distress. This repeated pattern of abuse can result in serious distress on behalf of the victim. The state of New York maintains several laws related to cyberstalking and online harassment, where charges could include several years in prison.
• Computer Hacking Charges in New York are serious matters that could violate several state and federal laws. Unauthorized access to a computer or device, deleting computer data, selling computer passwords, or computer trespassing all fall within the umbrella term of “hacking.” Using a computer to facilitate fraud, access unauthorized information, or extort an individual or business all come with serious charges associated with several different laws.
• Data Breaches may include civil or criminal penalties for businesses or organizations that fail to properly protect sensitive consumer, patient, or client data. This area of law continues to evolve as many organizations have the legal responsibility to take steps to protect the data that their computer systems maintain.
• Phishing Charges in New York see an individual fraudulently obtain, including personal data, passwords, or bank account information, via online deception. These types of crimes could come with criminal impersonation or wire fraud charges, depending on the nature of the crime.
• Credit Card Fraud often includes the use of a computer or similar device, where credit card information is fraudulently obtained and used for criminal gain. Such charges can include additional related computer charges depending on how the credit card fraud was facilitated. 

Penalties for Computer Crimes in New York

Computer-related criminal charges can include a long list of legal consequences, like fines, imprisonment, probation, the suspension of professional licenses, and much more. Conviction of such crimes has long-term impacts on your personal and professional reputations, along with the appearance of your name in criminal record searches. You are likely to face challenges finding meaningful employment after serving your prison sentence.

These criminal charges come with life-changing legal consequences, and must be taken seriously the moment you are arrested or investigated.

Defending Against Computer Crime Charges

The legal defenses against such charges will need to be carefully crafted by an experienced attorney who understands both the criminal laws and the technology used for such crimes. Legal defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure, or insufficient evidence. 

Your legal defense will be unique to your case.

Why Choose Julie Rendelman as Your New York City Internet Crime Lawyer

Julie Rendelman should be your first choice as an attorney who remains highly qualified to address the complexities of any kind of computer-related criminal charge. 

As a former Prosecutor in Kings County, Brooklyn, Julie Rendelman brings a wealth of experience in these criminal matters. Her experience includes promotion to an elite Homicide Bureau, where she became the Deputy Bureau Chief. She continues to help her clients achieve favorable results in criminal cases related to online crime. 

With over 60 felony jury trials under her belt, she continues to handle high-profile criminal cases across New York City with aggressive defense strategies dedicated to putting her clients’ best interests above all else. Learn more about Julie Rendelman and contact her today for a free, no-obligation consultation call. Speaking with an attorney is in your best interest. You are not the first person to make such mistakes, and we can help you exercise your legal right to fair and qualified representation.

Speak with a representative today and contact the offices of Julie Rendelman now to begin the process.