In the digital age, information, entertainment, and education are more easily accessible than ever. Users can have a near-live feed of world events and are able to gain deep insight into things happening around them. From world news to recipes and family trees, the internet has empowered people to go forth and conquer. However, with great power comes great responsibility and some people use the uncharted nature of the world wide web to their advantage and commit crimes. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Computer/Internet Crimes?
Internet crimes are criminal offenses committed through the internet or other networks. In general, internet crimes are entirely virtual and are often of a financial nature rather than that of a violent crime. However, while computer crimes are virtual, the consequences are real.
Internet or cyber crimes are known to most as email scams, identity theft, ransomware, online predation, or financial crimes. In recent years, the advent of cryptocurrency has led to an increase in financial theft. For those who do not have a crypto wallet, they’ve likely received a suspicious email to their work address. These emails may solicit business courses, improvement webinars, and other things that require credit card information.
Phishing
These emails are considered “phishing” schemes that look official enough to be opened and for the untrained eye, may seem like a great opportunity. Scammers use these formats to “phish” for information like bank info, credit cards, and identity information.
Online Predators
A more sinister virtual threat involves predation. Online predators are individuals with perverse cravings and inclinations that use the internet to mine content that satisfies their desires. The content necessary to satisfy often depicts children in compromising or sexual positions. Additionally, predators may use social media to lure minors into meeting them or providing photos that can be used as child pornography.
Dark Web
In addition to sexual predators, other individuals use obscure networks to access the “dark web” – the virtual hotbed of global crime. The dark web has been known to be the medium for human trafficking, illegal weapons trading, and more.
Penalties for Internet Crimes
The penalties for cyber crimes are as follows:
- Anonymous Communication of Indecent Messages: A misdemeanor involving harassing or obscene communication with another user is punishable by three years in jail.
- Criminal Solicitation of a Minor: A felony punishable by up to ten years in prison
- First-Degree Computer Crime: A felony punishable by five years in prison and fines of no more than $50,000
- Second-Degree Computer Crime: A felony punishable by five years in prison and fines up to $50,000 if the victim’s loss is between $1,000-10,000
- Third-Degree Computer Crime: A felony punishable by up to two years in prison and fines up to $2,000
Defense
If you have been charged with a cybercrime in South Carolina, you must contact an attorney immediately. The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC offers confidential and free consultations, and we are available to answer questions and present legal strategies to clients.