Minneapolis Internet Crimes Lawyer & Attorney
Most of the world’s population can now access the Internet. It is a method in which people communicate with one another, find information, and many even make their living through ecommerce. People even study and attend online college courses. That is how the Internet has taken the world by storm.
But in addition to these great things about the Internet, there is also the dark side of the Internet. In 2008, the Internet Crime Complaint Center reported nearly 300,000 Internet crime complaints. These crimes resulted in an over $250 million loss because of the way the Internet has changed the way the world does business within and outside of borders.
Types Of Internet Crimes
Although it may not seem like it, there are a number of convictions that can take place. For those who have been charged, a Minnesota Internet crimes defense attorney can help in this situation. Whether guilty or innocent, it is important to have legal representation.
The types of Internet crimes include:
- Non delivery of merchandise or payment – This crime accounted for 19% of all Internet crime complaints in 2007.
- Internet auction fraud – You are probably familiar with auction sites such as eBay. In this case, the item is not delivered as promised. If it is delivered, its condition may not be what was stated in the item description. Then again, the auctioned item may be a stolen item. This accounted for 44% of Internet crimes in 2007.
- Credit card fraud – Due to unsecured payment options and networks, this crime happens quite often. Credit card numbers are stolen and then the accounts are used by the thieves to make their own purchases.
- Business fraud – White collar crimes that are committed over the Internet are frequently referred to as “business fraud.” However, this crime usually involves a company that is falsified in order for someone to gain a profit.
There are other crimes such as identity theft, investment fraud, computer fraud, Internet pornography and sex crimes, computer hacking, and cyber stalking. Many feel that just because they are in cyber space means that they can never be identified. This is certainly not the case. There are methods in place to easily identify online criminals.
Internet Crimes Penalties
Internet crimes are usually tried in federal court. This means you need a MN Internet crimes defense lawyer with experience defending individuals in federal court. There are differences between federal court and state court in that the federal level is much harsher in the way of penalties. The penalties can include: Prison time, large fines, restitution to victims, loss of your job and difficulty finding a new one, community service, loss of the ability to own firearms, and the inability to travel to other countries.
Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer & Attorney
If you’ve been accused of an Internet crime, you need an experienced Twin Cities Internet crimes lawyer to help you in your case. You need someone by your side from start to finish who has experience in federal court and who will be aggressive in your case.
Call Torres, DeGree and Associates at (612) 861-5003 for your free initial consultation and take the first step toward preserving your future.