The term ‘computer crime’ is a broad umbrella, and a lot fits under that title…
‘Computer crimes’ is a very vague description. The only thing that’s obvious about it, is that whatever crimes are being alluded to, require the use of a computer. However, that could be almost anything these days. From hacking and fraud, to child pornography, there’s a huge number of crimes that fall under the umbrella of ‘computer crimes’ in Michigan. So for those of you who aren’t sure what exactly counts as a computer crime in Michigan, and you’d like to know, this one’s for you.
Using a computer to commit a crime is different from computer crimes!
The first thing that needs to be made clear is this: computer crimes refers to a variety of criminal activities that are committed using a computer. However, Use of a Computer to Commit a Crime is a specific criminal charge here in Michigan that can be filed by the prosecutor in addition to other charges.
That means you could be charged for Possession of Child Sexually Abusive Materials (child porn), or Tax Fraud, depending on what exactly you’re accused of, AND also be charged with Use of a Computer to Commit a Crime. Because Use of a Computer to Commit a Crime is a charged based on the underlying crime, it can mean either a misdemeanor of a felony charge, and be punishable by anything from one year in jail to a lifetime in prison, depending on what crime you used the computer to commit.
There are many different crimes that include computer use in Michigan.
Child pornography:
This is a big category all by itself, as it could include Possession, Distribution or Production of Child Sexually Abusive Materials. In Michigan, all of the above are against the law, and are treated very seriously. Any image or recording of a person under the age of 18 (or what appears to be a minor) engaging in sexual intercourse, erotic fondling, masturbation, passive sexual involvement, sexual excitement, or erotic nudity counts as child porn in Michigan.
Identity theft:
Identity theft means stealing someone’s personal information, which is then sold, or used to access money, lines of credit, employment opportunities, and much more. Personal identifying information often includes names, social security numbers, addresses, phone numbers, bank accounts logins, and credit card information.
Fraud and financial crimes:
Financial and fraud crimes are any crimes where a person intentionally defrauds someone else for monetary or personal gain. This could also include crimes against property, usually involving the transfer of ownership without permission, for your own personal benefit or gain.
Revenge pornography:
Revenge porn laws have only been passed in Michigan in the last few years. Now, anyone who posts sexually explicit pictures of someone else online,without their permission, will be faced with steep fines and jail time.
Hacking:
Hacking most commonly refers to the unlawful and unauthorized accessing of data in a closed system. This can be either for the purposes of stealing the information inside that system, or for the more malicious purpose of planting viruses and other malware. Hackers can be very difficult to track, and therefore very hard to catch and prosecute. However, once someone has been caught hacking, Michigan prosecutors are notoriously harsh in bringing charges.
Soliciting a minor:
Nowadays, most solicitation for sex doesn’t happen on street corners. Instead, it takes place online, through dating sites and personals ads, like those on Craigslist, Backpage, and similar sites. Many people accused of soliciting sex from a minor are in contact with that minor online, through a some kind of social media or message app. Which makes this a “computer crime” in Michigan.
Have you been accused of computer crimes in Michigan?
Computer crimes are often punished severly in Michigan. So if you or a loved one have been accused of using a computer to commit a crime, or of participating in illegal activity online, you’re going to need experienced cyber crime defense attorneys on your side. We understand that cyber crimes are complex and require expert witnesses, highly skilled investigators, and knowledgeable attorneys. Which is why we have all three on hand at all times. So call us right now at 866 766 5245 (866 7No Jail). We are here for you 24/7.