Using your computer in specific ways may land you in trouble with the law. Some electronic activities may lead to charges of unlawful use of a computer.
The charge encompasses various scenarios. Discover some of the most common examples of computer activities that may lead you to defend your actions to a jury.
Hacking
The most common example of unlawful use of a computer is hacking. This activity involves breaking into someone else’s personal information. Hacking may occur from inside a business or even at home. Say, for example, you need to get something off your roommate’s computer, but he or she is not home. You decide to guess the password to gain access, and after a couple of attempts, you succeed. The act of getting into the computer with that person’s express consent is hacking.
Sabotage
Facing a sabotage charge means that you stand accused of doing something malicious to cause harm to a business’s computer system. A typical scenario of this type of unlawful computer use charge involves destroying files or servers in retaliation to an employer for termination. Sabotage may also occur when one person wants to sink someone else’s idea or reputation by deleting or changing his or her computer files.
Ransomware
One of the most severe actions you can take against another person is holding digital files hostage. In this charge, the police believe you implanted a virus that locks another’s computer with the threat of exposing sensitive information unless you receive money. Ransomware has escalated in use and scenarios, resulting in serious charges.
You should take any unlawful use of computer charge seriously. Making a plan to get through may involve getting the help of someone familiar with what you may face.
