Technology is constantly advancing and we are spending more and more time on the internet. But, criminal activity has evolved with the internet. As a result, cybercrimes become more and more common. These crimes are taken very seriously in New Jersey and can have harsh repercussions. Read on to learn more.
What are the Most Common Cybercrimes?
Credit Card Fraud
The following actions constitute credit card fraud:
- Making false statements to obtain a credit card
- Stealing someone’s credit card
- Receiving a lost, mislaid, or mistakenly delivered credit card and using it
- Selling or buying a credit card from anyone other than the issuer
- Obtaining a credit card to secure a debt
- Counterfeiting a credit card
- Signing a credit card without authorization
- Using or accepting a credit card knowing it was revoked, forged, or expired
- Receiving anything of value as a result of credit card fraud
Identity Theft
Identity theft a serious issue in New Jersey. Identity theft can include:
- Impersonating or falsely assuming the identity of an individual in order to enrich yourself or defraud someone else
- Pretending to represent a person or organization for your benefit or to defraud someone
- Obtaining a person’s identifying information so you can assume that identity to:
- Attain some benefit or service
- Avoid payment of a debt or other legal obligation
- Avoid prosecution for a crime by using the victim’s identity
Internet Sex Crimes
Downloading or accessing child pornography can have serious legal repercussions.
What are the Penalties for Cybercrimes in New Jersey?
If you are charged with a cybercrime in New Jersey, such as identity theft, you can face the following penalties:
- If the amount stolen is less than $500, there is only one victim, and it is the offender’s first offense, identity theft is a fourth-degree crime. This can result in up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
- If the amount that was stolen is between $500 and $750,000, or there are two to four victims involved, identity theft is a third-degree crime, potentially resulting in three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
- If more than $75,000 are stolen or there are five or more victims, this level of identity theft is considered a second-degree crime, leading to five to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000.
If you are facing charges for a cybercrime, contact our firm right away.
CONTACT OUR FIRM
Kevin T. Conway is an experienced Bergen County criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. Attorney Conway is also experienced in commercial law matters, zoning law, and estate planning. If you need an aggressive criminal lawyer, contact The Law Office of Kevin T. Conway for a free consultation.
