Tough, Resourceful Criminal Defense on Your Side When You are Accused of Internet Crimes
The technology which allows online shopping, depositing checks into a bank account, using a smartphone or sharing photos with family members anywhere in the world has given birth to criminal activities that were not possible before the development of the internet. As law enforcement agencies and prosecutors focus increased attention and resources on cybercrimes, the Philadelphia internet crime attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim are well-respected, passionate advocates for the rights of the accused. Internet crimes can be as complex as the technology behind them. Our attorneys have the hands-on experience that comes from representing people accused of internet crimes. We know the importance of waging an aggressive defense against such charges.
Internet Crimes Under Pennsylvania Law
Internet crimes cover a wide-range of activities, but one commonality is the severity of the penalties and the potentially life-altering consequences resulting from a conviction. Common cybercrimes include:
- Identity Theft: Recent disclosures of government agencies and retail businesses being the targets of computer hackers have led to an increase in prosecutions for identity theft. Pennsylvania classifies identity theft as a misdemeanor of the first degree if the victim’s loss is less than $2,000. If it is more than $2,000, the crime becomes a felony.
- Bank Fraud and Forgery: The increased popularity of online banking has resulted in criminal prosecutions against people accused of using log on information to access another person’s account. Bank fraud might also be a violation of federal laws.
- Child Pornography: Sexual abuse of children is a serious criminal charge under Pennsylvania laws involving the use of the Internet to view, distribute or sell images or videos depicting children under the age of 18 engaging in sexual acts. These crimes are felonies under state law and may also be prosecuted as violations of federal law.
- Sex Crimes: Internet sex crimes may involve anything from sharing nude or sexually explicit pictures with your underage boyfriend or girlfriend to soliciting a minor. A conviction can result in a prison sentence, but even if you avoid going to prison, the requirement to register as a sex offender may restrict where you can live or the types of jobs that you can hold. The registration requirements are often called Meghan’s Law.
- Harassment/Stalking: It is not uncommon for activity on the internet to be through Wi-Fi. If Wi-Fi is hacked or hijacked, your crimes may be committed by others but look like you.
Innovative Criminal Defense Strategies Against Internet Crime Charges
Internet crimes may involve highly complex and technical issues. Sometimes, the charges against you can be the result of a lapse in judgment over a misunderstanding. Sting operations conducted by law enforcement, particularly in child pornography or the solicitation of sex from a minor, may cross the line between good police work and entrapment. When your freedom is at stake, you deserve a resourceful Philadelphia criminal defense attorney who is up to the challenge of creating an aggressive defense strategy to attack the government’s case. We are committed to securing a favorable outcome for you.
Putting Premier Philadelphia Internet Crime Attorneys to Work as Your Staunch Advocates Begins by Scheduling a Consultation Today
The team of Philadelphia internet crimes defense attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim have the skill, legal acumen and dedication to excellence you need when facing serious cybercrime charges. Contact us today for a free initial consultation by contacting us online, or call us at (215) 486-0123.
