Why It is Easy to Be Accused of an Internet Crime

In today’s digital age, computers have become a permanent part of our lives. Just about every American household has a home computer. If you are like most people, there is a good chance you also have access to another digital device, such as a smartphone, notebook or tablet. When most people think of Internet crimes, they immediately think of someone either engaging in child pornography or stealing someone’s identity. But what they don’t realize is countless innocent people throughout the country are accused of internet crimes without doing anything. One wrong click of the mouse can begin a downward spiral into huge legal problems.

It Can’t Happen To Me

At any given time, millions of people around the world are online performing a multitude of tasks. Many are busy updating their status on social media. Others are communicating with friends and relatives far away. But there are many others who engage in illegal activities that pose even more dangerous than even the most violent criminals in the streets. The only difference is these people are not in plain sight and often hide in complete anonymity.

Due to the increase of people online, law enforcement has gotten more aggressive in cracking down on Internet crimes around the world. Unfortunately, is now more common for criminal investigators to use circumstantial evidence to charge someone for an internet crime. As a result, countless innocent people are falsely charged and convicted of everything from possession of child pornography to grand larceny.

Most Common Types of Cybercrimes

When most people go online, they never suspect they will become the victim of Internet crime. It can be easy to have a false sense of security when using a computer in the privacy of your own home. But at a given moment, you can easily fall victim to the following cybercrimes:

• Identity Theft: Anytime you provide personal information online, such as your social security number, date of birth, home address or credit card number, it can be an open invitation for anyone to steal your identity. In some cases, identity theft victims can even be accused of Internet crimes they did not commit.
• Internet Fraud: Surfing the Internet can be like navigating a battlefield. You never know where there will be a landmine. What may seem like a harmless email from a stranger could be a scam or even contain a virus. Some chatrooms may contain online predators, preying on children. But there are also other chatrooms with law enforcement officers posing as children trying to lure people into incriminating acts.
• International Cybercrime: The Internet is worldwide. Many of the most dangerous criminals are people who live thousands of miles away. But when you are online, they can practically be in the same room. Schemes and invitations to participate in foreign lotteries are common.

Are You Accused of an Internet Crime? The High-End Criminal Defense Attorneys at Okabe & Haushalter Can Help

Internet crimes carry a heavy price. In addition to enormous damage to your reputation, just one charge for child pornography or identity theft can cost a person their entire future and result in significant time behind bars. It is vital to seek the best possible criminal defense representation to fight these charges as quickly and aggressively as possible. The Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at Okabe & Haushalter are committed to providing high-end legal representation and counsel for some of the most complex cases. They utilize an aggressive and comprehensive approach to protect the rights of each client and to always look after their best interests. When it comes to criminal defense, you often get what you pay for. Do not take chances with your legal representation. Contact the law offices of Okabe & Haushalter and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.