Internet Theft and Fraud

Considering the rapidly increasing use of the Internet today and ever-increasing technology, computer fraud has become a common offense today. Whether you have been accused of theft or fraudulent activity which involved the Internet, you may face serious criminal penalties if convicted. At The Justice Firm, our primary objective is to provide clients accused of computer theft or fraud with the legal support and guidance necessary to obtain positive results. We will work aggressively to protect your freedom and reputation, doing whatever is necessary to prevent a conviction or have charges dismissed or reduced.

There are numerous criminal offenses which involve the use of the Internet. Some of the most common include:

• Spoofing. Spoofing occurs when an individual sends out an email which appears to the recipient to be from a legitimate website/company, but contains links that send the recipient to a fraudulent website.
• Hacking. Using unlawful tactics and skill/knowledge to access a website without authorization or the exploitation of an online computer system is considered hacking.
• Phishing. Phishing is the act of trying to get someone to reveal private or personal information including passwords, bank account information, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers through spoof or "fake" emails.
• Communications fraud. Communications fraud occurs when an individual uses satellite, landline, wireless, or other Internet services without payment. Sharing music, movies, or other property which is copyrighted without authorization through peer-to-peer software is also communications fraud.
• Identity theft and fraud. Obtaining another individual's personal information in a fraudulent manner with the intent of using it for illegal purposes is identity theft; examples include some of the above such as hacking, phishing, and spoofing.
• Internet auction fraud. Failing to deliver merchandise after selling an item or product on an online auction site such as eBay is considered Internet auction fraud.
• Bank account/credit card fraud. It is unlawful to make unauthorized purchases on the Internet using someone else's debit or credit card.

Often times individuals are caught up in Internet fraud schemes innocently or unintentionally. Being charged with Internet theft or fraud is a frightening and stressful experience, and may lead to life-changing criminal penalties. We urge you to contact our Los Angeles criminal defense firm at once for unsurpassed legal guidance.

The criminal penalties you may face if convicted of an Internet fraud crime vary, and depend on the specific facts of your case. Penalties range from thousands of dollars to several years in jail/prison. Many Internet crimes are investigated and prosecuted at the federal level. This usually leads to penalties which are even more harsh. For example, if convicted of phishing, you may face federal penalties which include fines of up to $250,000 and decades in prison.

The unfortunate fact about Internet theft crimes is that frequently, individuals are charged with multiple offenses. Someone charged with phishing may also be charged with credit card fraud, identity theft, etc. This means penalties become even more damaging.

Whether you are under investigation or have been arrested, it is critical that you consult with a highly capable and skilled Los Angeles Internet theft and fraud lawyer right away. We have the experience, detailed knowledge of Internet crimes, and dedicated, aggressive approach to obtain positive results in your case. Contact our office today at 310-914-2444.