Internet Crime - An Overview

The Internet has changed everyday life in ways too numerous to count. Instantaneous communication with people all over the world has become commonplace. The new technology has also created new legal issues, particularly in the area of criminal law. If you are facing charges of Internet crimes, including possession of child pornography and soliciting sex from a minor, contact an attorney for help.

The anonymity of the Internet has allowed persons who commit certain offenses against children to operate in relative safety. Child pornography is sold and distributed with ease over the Internet. In addition, adults who prey on children often befriend children they meet online and arrange meetings with them for sexual purposes. The children who agree to meet an online "friend" typically do so without knowing that the person on the other end is an adult pretending to be a child.

Law enforcement agencies, on both the state and federal levels, have made the investigation of Internet crimes against children one of their top priorities. Local police and federal agencies like the FBI are applying new techniques to detect crimes against children. One of these techniques is the so-called "sting" operation, in which law enforcement officers pose as people interested in buying or swapping child pornography. The information gained in the transaction is used to find and prosecute both the sellers and buyers and people who are in possession of the pornographic materials.

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Identity Theft

Identity theft happens when a person steals someone else's personal information and uses it to acquire loans, credit cards, automobiles and other items. The thief may even use the victim's identity to secure employment or avoid criminal charges. The information that perpetrators seek includes Social Security numbers, addresses, phone numbers, names, bank account information and credit card information. Over the past decades and with the growth of the Internet, identity theft has become an increasingly visible problem. Law enforcement, prosecutors and legislators have focused numerous resources on combating identity theft. If you have been involved with identity theft, contact an attorney who is familiar with the law of identity theft and the Internet.

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Child Pornography

The Internet has become a common means for the distribution of child pornography. Child pornography is illegal virtually everywhere in the world, and numerous law enforcement agencies have made it a priority. This means that cases are investigated and prosecuted aggressively. If you are facing charges related to possession, distribution or production of child pornography, contact an attorney who can advise you of your rights and options.

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4-1-9 Scams and Advance Fee Fraud

Many people who have e-mail accounts have received a message promising a fabulous sum of money in return for assisting in the transfer of funds out of a country, usually Nigeria. Numerous businesses have also received faxes making similar offers. These proposals are part of a fraudulent scheme called a "4-1-9 scam"; it is named after the section of the Nigerian criminal code dealing with such fraud. If you have been involved in a 4-1-9 scam, consult with an attorney experienced in the area of Internet crime.

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Solicitation of a Minor on the Internet

Solicitation of minors for sexual purposes on the Internet is an issue that has grown immensely in the past decade. It is a crime that has garnered a great deal of attention; newsmagazine shows highlight "stings" of alleged sexual predators, and the government and advocacy groups widely distribute information to help parents protect their kids. The consequences of a conviction for soliciting a minor on the Internet can be very serious. If you have been involved in or are accused of soliciting a minor, contact an attorney who will explain your rights.

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