We use our computers at home and at work for just about everything nowadays. All important documents and matters are saved to these computers, computer systems, and computer networks. But even more than this, this information is also saved online or in the “cloud.” As such, this vulnerability has been targeted by criminals. Online computer fraud is a serious form of criminal activity, and law enforcement is using all its tools to combat it. Computer Fraud Defense Attorney, William Kroger, is beyond knowledgeable of these tools.

That's why, if you have been charged with an online computer fraud offense, it is not a matter to be taken lightly -- because you can rest assured Los Angeles County will not take it lightly. Get legal representation as soon as possible, but not just any kind of legal representation: you need an online computer fraud defense attorney with trial experience and the insight and skills that stem from that experience.

William Kroger is an Online Computer Fraud Defense Attorney who represents clients throughout Los Angeles and LA County who have been charged with internet crimes or white collar crimes. He will thoroughly review your case with you and outline your options. He wants the best outcome for you -- whether that's a dismissal of all charges, reduced charges, an alternative to sentencing, or acquittal at trial, or any other outcome that is most appropriate and beneficial to you under your unique circumstances -- so he fights for each of his clients with his knowledge of the law and his ability to negotiate and craft strategic defenses.

If you have been arrested for online computer fraud offense, here's an overview of what that may mean in California, particularly in LA county. If after reading this, you still have questions or need legal representation, contact William Kroger's office today.

What is Online Computer Fraud in LA County

Online computer fraud does not constitute one crime but is an umbrella term for many crimes. Generally speaking, however, online computer fraud is the use of computers, high-tech devices, the internet, internet services, and internet devices to defraud a person or entities of their resources (usually financial resources or identity information). Entities include anything from a small business to banks to medical facilities to large multinational corporations.

Examples of online computer crimes include:

• Phishing
• Viruses
• E-commerce fraud
• DDoS attacks
• Spoofing
• Intellectual Property Rights violations
• Spamming
• Scamming.
• Cyberstalking
• Revenge Porn

There are a number of state and federal laws that cover these crimes. In California, many of these crimes are prosecuted under California penal code 484e PC, penal code 530.5 PC, and penal code 502 PC. These statutes address criminal activity related to credit card fraud, online identity theft, and unauthorized computer access, respectively.

What are the Penalties for Online Computer Fraud in Los Angeles County?

If you have committed some type of online computer fraud, each time you use that information, it counts as a separate violation -- so that should be kept in mind when considering what punishment may look like for you specifically.

For that reason, there is not a clear answer with regards to punishment. If you are found guilty or plead guilty, the penalties you face depend on the classification of the crime and whether it is prosecuted under state or federal law. In Los Angeles, many of these crimes, like those prosecuted under penal codes 502 and 530.5, are wobbler crimes. That means they can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on your criminal history and the extent of the crime or amount of the loss to the victim(s).

Regardless what the classification of the crime is, you can expect jail or prison time along with substantial court fines and victim restitution.

Are There Defenses to Online Computer Fraud in Los Angeles County?

You should always plead not guilty so you can fight the charge. William Kroger will review your case thoroughly for any constitutional violations that can be challenged. But there may also be specific, viable defenses, like being falsely accused of the crime or lacking the intention to use information for fraudulent purposes. William Kroger will identify key aspects of your case and build on it to either use in negotiations with the prosecutor or use at trial to weaken the State's case against you.

Experienced Online Computer Fraud Defense Attorney in Los Angeles County

If you are in Los Angeles or L.A. County and need legal representation, contact us online or call us at 323-655-5700 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case. William Kroger, a renowned Computer Fraud Defense Attorney, is ready to help.