YES, YOUR INTERNET ACTIONS ARE DISCOVERABLE
July 14, 2022
While you scroll through the Internet or social media, it probably never crosses your mind that someone could be using the computer to commit cybercrimes in the same city as you. Cybercrimes are when anyone uses a computer or a computer system to commit a crime of any sort. This includes attempting to commit a crime, and even soliciting others for crimes while using a computer device. Many think what they do on the Internet is not traceable, but the web is not as anonymous as they may believe. Whenever someone goes on the web, you are unconsciously leaving breadcrumbs. The biggest breadcrumb is your IP address. Once law enforcement identifies this number, they’ll quickly identify you.
When one’s identity is known, a charge will occur. Suppose you have been accused of committing cybercrimes. In that case, you must obtain a criminal defense attorney knowledgeable in cybercrime who can get you the sentence you deserve. This can be a scary time for some; while the penalty can only be one year in jail and a small fine, this crime can also have a sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a hefty fine of $20,000- so it’s crucial to find an attorney who can help you navigate your options. Our attorneys at McCririe Law have years of experience in cybercrime on both the prosecution and defense sides and can help fight for the outcome you want.
In the State of Michigan, if the alleged breaking of the law was a violation that cost under $200, it’s considered a misdemeanor; and is regarded as a felony if the cost is above $1,000. Under Michigan’s computer crime statute, or MCL.752.791-97, the state of Michigan prohibits to following uses of the computer:
- Intentional and unauthorized access to a computer to damage, alter, or delete information (property), or use the service of a computer program.
- Creating opportunities for unwanted attachments of a set of instructions or an unwanted program on a computer.
- Intentionally accessing (or providing access) to a computer to execute a scheme with intent to defraud, or obtain money, property, or service under a false pretense.
- Utilizing a computer to commit any crime.
The penalty differs from the four violations within the statute, depending on the amount of losses- this includes the financial losses and the emotional toll of the victim’s losses. Internet crimes can consist of phishing, extortion, or sex crimes. If you haven’t heard of the word “phishing,” it is the process of deceiving someone to give up personal or financial. However, it is the cyber crime offenses that particularly worry people.
When you are accused of an internet sex crime in the State of Michigan, it can result in consequences of both being registered as a sex offender and the threat of a prison sentence. When someone downloads illegal files or materials, they are often charged with an internet sex crime. This could also result when one goes to illegal websites or advertisements. In addition to this, if that individual knows the person in the online material they possess is a minor, it adds another four-year felony and $10,000.
Since these crimes carry such a severe sentence, it’s very important that you interview local attorneys and find one who specializes in internet crimes and internet sex crimes. Our attorneys at McCririe Law have been practicing for 40 years, defending clients facing internet sex crime charges since the beginning of the online era. Call us and meet with one of our attorneys for a free consultation today!
Get yourself a good lawyer in this area! We can guide you. Our attorneys at McCririe Law have years of experience in cybercrime on both the prosecution and defense sides.
