The internet has made it easier than ever for people to connect with one another, research and communicate. However, it also facilitates criminal activities as well. While the online world was once a Wild West environment with few regulations and next to no oversight, the modern internet is much more monitored.
People can wind up charged with a wide range of criminal offenses related to alleged digital behavior. For example, cyberstalking involves the digital harassment or tracking of someone across multiple online platforms, such as social media sites.
People can also use the internet to make illegal purchases, download copyrighted movies or music and otherwise violate state and federal laws. Those accused of computer, internet or digital crimes should take immediate action to protect themselves.
Will a forensic analysis of your devices help?
Online interactions, downloads and more leave traces behind both online and often on the device used as well. Although prosecutors or investigators can connect an alleged criminal act with your internet account or IP address, they may not know exactly who played a role. Having an independent professional review your devices and demonstrate that you didn’t have any illegal files or computer records of illegal behavior could help you establish a defense.
Can you show that your connection was vulnerable?
In some cases, what seems like illegal activity on your part was actually the result of someone else having access to your internet connection. Whether you didn’t put a password on your Wi-Fi or had a roommate who perhaps engaged in questionable online behavior, demonstrating that other people were using your internet or IP address could create a reasonable doubt about who’s responsible for the alleged crime.