Minneapolis Internet Crimes Attorney

Facing Cybercrime Charges in Minneapolis? Call Our Lawyers 24/7!

With the rapid growth of technology over the last few decades, internet crime or “cybercrime” now represents one of the fastest-growing areas of the law. No matter if you’re commenting on a friend’s social media post or downloading content in a peer-to-peer sharing program, there is no guarantee that the United States government will turn a blind eye to your online activities, even if you delete potentially incriminating files. In some cases, you may even be wrongfully accused of a computer-related crime based on someone else’s online activity.

If you or a loved one face charges involving internet crimes, we cannot encourage you strongly enough to contact our Minneapolis team at Tamburino Law Group. The laws governing internet activity are still relatively new – and they are always changing. Not all criminal defense attorneys are equally equipped to defend your interests effectively and aggressively, but with over 100 years of experience, our lawyers can fight for a fair outcome on your behalf.

For more information on how we can help you fight cybercrime charges, call (612) 444-5020.

What Counts as an Internet Crime?

Under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1984, many different crimes can be classified as computer or internet crimes. From child pornography to credit card fraud and theft, many of these are existing criminal violations that are simply made easier by the advent of the internet. In addition to crimes that take place with the help of the internet, however, there are also several offenses related to computers specifically, including hacking crimes, computer damage, and computer theft.

Because cybercrimes cost the government millions of dollars every year now, even a first-time offense can carry serious penalties. Additionally, these crimes are often prosecuted in federal courts, as the internet crosses state lines. As federal crimes, such charges may carry even harsher sentences.

Cybercrime is a new area of criminal law, and may include:

• Identity theft
• Distributing/creating computer viruses
• Internet phishing
• Online solicitation of a minor
• Child pornography crimes
• Hacking
• Credit card fraud
• Computer hacking
• Investment fraud

Penalties for Cybercrimes in Minnesota 

Many cybercrimes are tried in federal court because federal prosecutors usually have more experience with such offenses. That being said, Minnesota does have a set of laws governing cybercrimes. According to Code Section 609.87, internet and computer crimes can be charged with either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances and severity of the crime. Misdemeanor crimes typically include crimes involving unauthorized computer access, potentially those that also risk the public's health or safety or compromise the data's security. More serious crimes that pose a serious risk to others, especially those that could cause fatalities, are almost certainly charged as felonies.

The penalties vary depending on the threat to the public and the cost of the damage. Depending on the severity of the crime, individuals convicted of cybercrimes could face anywhere from less than 90 days in jail to 10 years in prison. Likewise, the fines may range anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000.

Get a Board Certified Defense Lawyer On Your Side

At Tamburino Law Group, we’re unique because we have extensive experience and because we are passionate about fighting for our clients. As a criminal defense firm, we have been serving the Twin Cities, and the greater Minnesota area, for decades. Over the years, our attorneys have handled hundreds of jury trials and received numerous accolades.

Several of our attorneys have also been included in the list of Super Lawyers®. Allan Caplan and Joe Tamburino have been recognized as Super Lawyers, and Joe Tamburino is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist through the Minnesota State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. This is a certification only 3 percent of attorneys hold.

Contact Tamburino Law Group at (612) 444-5020 to set up a free case review for your internet crime charges!