In Florida, offenses against computer users is a charge covering a wide variety of "hacking," "cracking" and damaging online behavior. If you are charged with an offense against computer users, prosecutors believe you have:

• accessed the computer and/or network of another without permission,
• disrupted, denied, or caused the denial of computer system services of another,
• destroyed, taken, damaged, or injured computer equipment or supplies of another that were used or intended to be used in a computer or network, or
• introduced computer contaminants (viruses) into the computer or network of another.

Depending on the circumstances, the penalties for this crime ranges from probation up to 15 years in prison. Additionally, thanks to the interstate nature of cyber crimes, there may be jurisdictional issues with offenses against computer users. Because the Internet crosses state lines, you may be charged with a cyber crime in more than one jurisdiction, including federal charges as well as charges in another state. A good Fort Lauderdale cyber crimes criminal defense attorney can help sort out the charges against you and mount the best defense possible on your behalf.

Cyber crime (computer crime) is an evolving area of the law. As technology grows, so does the law and the manner in which the legal community interprets technology. As the law is written, there are those who will argue that the current state of the law (as intended by the legislature) does not incorporate new technology, is vague and overbroad and may be unconstitutional.

David S. Seltzer is a Miami offenses against computer users criminal defense lawyer and a South Florida cyber crimes criminal defense attorney. Don’t delay; let an experienced former CYBER CRIME prosecutor help protect your good name and reputation. You can reach me 24 hours a day and seven days a week to set up a free, confidential consultation on your legal options. Call today or contact me online for a FREE, CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION.

For more information, see Florida Statute 815.06: Offenses against computer users.