Internet crime, also known as cyber-crime or computer crime, is a whole new world of various criminal offenses that has only existed for a short while. As technology continues to develop—its ultimate capabilities becoming more and more advanced—the potential for internet crime is consequently increasing. The possibilities are now endless, as a crime can take place behind closed doors and remain undetected for a great period of time. Anything from credit card fraud and identity theft to cyber stalking and sexual exploitation are now a possibility in the vast realm of the internet. Therefore, it is no surprise that true privacy is a thing of the past.
Federal organizations have begun to take serious preemptive measures in order to prevent this type of crime from happening, placing severe penalties on anyone found guilty of an internet offense. Since the nature of these crimes is often sophisticated and complex, however, it is becoming increasingly hard for law enforcement agencies to prove a defendant's guilt and subsequently prosecute the charges. For this reason, an individual who is suspected of a cyber-crime may be put under surveillance for a period of time while the appropriate organization conducts an investigation of the person in question.
If you are under investigation for an internet crime, or have already been formally charged with a criminal offense, it is in your best interest to act quickly by enlisting the help of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. The consequences of a conviction may result in imprisonment and the payment of costly fines, and depending on the type and severity of the crime, you may very likely be faced with a felony offense. New York laws take internet crime very seriously and wage punishment accordingly, so do not hesitate to obtain the services of an experienced legal professional as soon as you discover that you may be charged with a computer crime.