Hacking is defined as any act of accessing a computer or computer network without the permission of the owner. In some cases, hacking requires breaking through firewalls or password protections to gain access. In other cases, an individual can hack into a computer that has few or no defenses. Even if there are no defenses to “breaking in”, simply gaining access to a computer and its information qualifies as criminal hacking.

The intention to hack

To be convicted of computer hacking, it must be proven that the defendant knowingly gained access to a computer with the intent to break into without permission. Sometimes people, particularly computer-savvy young teens, get on a computer or network just to show they can do it. They can brag about their achievement afterwards, using the hack to show off their computer skills. Although there may not have been an intent to steal or defraud from the hacked system, the defendant can still be criminally charged.

criminal charges

When a person is arrested in Florida for computer hacking, they will be charged with a felony. If the defendant accessed a computer system without authorization but did not intend to steal or defraud, they will be charged with a third degree felony. However, if the hacker broke into the system and planned to defraud the owner of money or information, he will be charged with a second degree felony. Previous hacking crimes have included attempts to steal credit card information, social security numbers, or sensitive company or government information.

Penalties for piracy

Hacking is considered a major threat to company integrity, government confidentiality, and personal safety. Therefore, it is aggressively prosecuted in a court of law. Under Florida law, a third-degree felony for hacking can result in a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. For a hacking crime involving theft or fraudulent activity, the defendant could be punished with up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Beyond immediate court-ordered sanctions, a hacking crime can destroy a person’s personal and professional reputation. He or she may have trouble applying to colleges, getting scholarships, finding a job, or getting a loan. Even many years after his conviction, he could still be negatively affected by his felony hacking.

For more information

If you have been arrested for hacking, consider contacting a criminal defense attorney to defend your case. To learn more about hacking charges and prepare a defense for court, visit the experienced West Palm Beach criminal attorneys website at Eric N. Klein and Associates, Pennsylvania This day.