GA Cybercrime Attorney

cybercrimes attorney ga

Computer and online “cyber” crimes are being aggressively prosecuted at both the state and federal levels. Internet crimes are a top priority for the Georgia Department of Justice – and if you’re facing charges, you need an experienced cyber crimes attorney in Georgia on your side. 

Contact Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC today to ensure your rights are protected.

Types of cybercrimes

The breakneck changes in technology and internet accessibility require that Georgia and federal laws change rapidly to keep up. These rapid changes require experienced and knowledgeable representation by a Georgia white-collar crimes defense attorney.  

Cybercrimes are considered criminal offenses that are committed on or through the internet or using some form of computer technology. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common forms of cyber crimes.

Hacking

Hacking is a general term for using technology to remotely access a computer or network system. It can involve gaining proprietary or private information from the system, intercepting electronic transmissions or altering them, or securing sensitive financial and personal identifying information (PII) to which the hacker is not entitled.

Identity theft

Identify theft is a type of fraud where someone gains access to sensitive personal data that allows them to impersonate another person online. These key pieces of PII often include Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and other necessary information to open bank accounts or lines of credit for the imposter’s personal gain.

Online or computer fraud

Computer or online fraud is simply a more technologically advanced scheme or scam intended to defraud another person with deception for the initiator’s personal gain. It can be accomplished using a smartphone, computer, tablet, or the internet and can take several forms:

  • Advance-fee scams, emails, or other messages requesting money in return for small deposits. The notorious “Nigerian Prince” scam is a good example of this.
  • Using someone else’s computer to access their PII and financial information with the intent to use this information fraudulently.
  • Violating copyright statutes by illegally duplicating information or media to sell it.
  • “Phishing” emails are an attempt to gather information from users through emails posing as a legitimate agency.
  • Installing malware or spyware for the purpose of data mining.
  • Sending “worms” or viruses to ruin or destroy another computer or network.

Cyberstalking

Cyberstalking is an electronic form of harassing, following, or stalking another person using digital or electronic methods. Social media messaging, emailing, or posting messages on group forums could be forms of cyberstalking.

Some cyberstalking can escalate to threats, false accusations, or “doxing,” releasing PII and other personal information about an individual online with the intent to open them up to further harassment from others.

Employer-related cybercrimes

The Georgia Computer Systems Protection Act defines several other types of computer crimes as it relates to employers and employees in the government and private sectors: 

  • Computer theft: Using the device or network without permission or authority with the intent of taking, appropriating, or converting the property, even without the intention of depriving the owner of possession.
  • Computer invasion of privacy: Using a computer or network to examine the financial or personal information of another person without permission or authority.
  • Computer trespass: Using a network or computer to alter, interfere with, interrupt, damage, or delete data or a computer program.
  • Computer password disclosure: Disclosing computer or network password information without permission or authority, and which disclosure results in damages (including the fair market value of any services used and victim expenditure) to the owner of the computer or computer network in excess of $500.00.
  • Computer forgery: Altering, deleting, or creating data on a computer or network with the purpose to defraud.

cybercrimes attorney georgia

Consequences of cybercrimes

Criminal penalties

The penalties for fraudulent online activities can vary, however, the defendant may be ordered to pay restitution along with any financial gains that they acquired through the use of the stolen assets or information.

Georgia assesses both criminal and civil penalties for computer crimes. Some convictions may result in up to 15 years in prison, fines up to $50,000, and any type of restitution a judge may order.

Civil penalties

Georgia law permits those who suffered financial loss from computer crimes to file a civil lawsuit for compensatory damages against the party that committed the acts. The plaintiff (victim) may sue for the total amount of their losses plus any interest or financial gains that the perpetrator received through the use of the funds.

The plaintiff has four years from the date they discovered the computer fraud to file a civil suit. So, even if you were exonerated of charges in a criminal court, you may still be facing a civil suit and need legal guidance to defend your interests.

Reputation damage

Beyond the penalties assessed by the courts, people convicted of cybercrimes may suffer serious detrimental effects on their personal and professional reputations.

Certain charges, such as cyberstalking, online harassment, and possession of child pornography, have stigmas attached to them which could impact your familial relationships, friendships, and status in your community.

Loss of employment

You could be suspended or dismissed from your job after being charged with or convicted of cybercrimes. This is especially true if you were accused of using your employer’s computer or network to commit the alleged crime. Your employer may also have grounds to file a suit against you. 

People with professional licenses may be reprimanded by their professional governing association (such as a CPA or lawyer) and might have their license suspended or revoked, making finding gainful employment difficult.

Possibility of state and federal charges

In addition to state charges, you could also face criminal charges due to the far-reaching powers of the Department of Justice. 

Because you could be facing charges on multiple levels, it’s essential that you reach out to a Georgia white-collar crimes defense attorney who has experience defending people at both the state and federal levels. Our legal team is familiar with both the U.S. and Georgia statutes that apply to cybercrime charges and can provide legal advice for matters in both courts.

Cybercrime investigations and defenses

To protect yourself from years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines, you need legal advice from a white-collar crimes attorney who is well-versed in the often-changing Georgia cybercrime statutes.

The appropriate defense for your case depends on the circumstances of your case. We will conduct a thorough investigation to craft a solid case on your behalf. Some of the defenses that we may use in your case include:

  • Establishing that you had reason to believe that you were authorized to use the device or network in question.
  • Determining that you had good reason to believe that you had the right to reproduce data, software, or other information.
  • Providing reasonable grounds to think that you had permission or authority to destroy or alter computer data.

Benefits of working with a cyber crime lawyer

Each cybercrime case is different, but they all rely on establishing a reasonable doubt of your innocence. A white-collar crimes defense lawyer with a thorough knowledge of cybercrime laws and someone who truly understands technology and its limits can create a much better defense than someone with limited knowledge of technology and cybercrimes.

To protect yourself against cybercrime charges, you need an attorney with experience in these matters and the resources to properly defend you. The legal team at Griffin Durham Tanner & Clarkson LLC works with technical forensic experts to compile, capture, track, and organize digital evidence supporting your case. Our expertise and deep knowledge of Georgia law can help level the playing field against the prosecution.

Speak with our skilled Georgia cyber crimes lawyer today

Have you been charged with cybercrimes in Georgia? Protect your rights and your freedom with the help of an experienced cybercrime attorney in Georgia – contact us today to schedule a consultation. You can reach our esteemed attorneys and staff in Atlanta by calling (404) 891-9150 or in Savannah at (912) 867-9140.