Internet crime is a particular category of crimes that can include any illegal activity committed online. This can be done through email, online in chat rooms, among forums, or in other online groups. Internet crimes are illegal at both the state and federal level, and in some cases, groups such as Interpol could invoke international law.
Internet crime, which is also known as cybercrime, includes Internet scams, cyberstalking, Identity theft, cyber bullying, online child pornography, and other crimes. Groups participating in these activities may be widespread due to the nature of the online geography, and that can make it difficult to enforce and catch criminals.
Being accused of a cybercrime puts you in a difficult situation. You can face state or federal charges, and these may include prison sentences, heavy fines, or other penalties. You can be accused of many kinds of crimes, and each is likely to have its own range of penalties. For example, harassment and cyberbullying have only recently been recognized as crimes, and they are now punishable by law.
Other crimes that are punishable include illegal weapon trafficking, counterfeit trademarks, copyright violations, email phishing, virus spreading, domain name hijacking, financial extortion, and Internet bomb threats. Of course, this list is not all-inclusive.
When the police look for those who have committed these crimes, your computer, user information, and email may be investigated. Through computer forensics, police are able to go through data on the computer as well as some data that may have already been erased. If you find yourself needing a defense after being charged with one of these crimes in Texas, you should consider finding someone to help you sooner rather than later.
Source: Technopedia, “Internet Crime” Dec. 31, 2014