Computer Crimes
If you are accused of criminal charges like computer damage or unauthorized access in Minnesota, you may be surprised at the kind of punishment you may face. These laws are new attempts to catch up to technology changes. But that doesn’t mean they are applied fairly or make sense.
Prosecutors may not understand the technical aspects of these charges, and can overcharge these cases when there is little or no actual damage committed.
Sitting at home (or work) you probably never envisioned yourself facing criminal charges. But now you find yourself awaiting court dates and likely frightened at the possible criminal penalties you face. We understand that fear and want to help you defend your rights, and fight these charges.
Our defense lawyers have fought countless criminal charges in Minnesota criminal courts, and we can be the advocate you need. Our experience as well as our legal expertise have resulted in many excellent outcomes for our clients. Contact us today for your free case evaluation, and find our for yourself exactly what we can do for you.
Computer Damage – Laws & Penalties
Computer damage is committed through several acts. If you did any of the following you could be found guilty of computer damage:
- Intentionally and without permission damage or destroy any computer, system, network, or software,
- Intentionally with without permission or with intent to injure or defraud alter any computer, system, network, or software, or
- Distribute and destructive program (virus) with intent to damage or destroy any computer, system, network, or software.
You potential sentence depends on the value of damage done in the commission of the alleged crime.
| Value: | Potential Sentence: |
| More than $2,500 | Up to 10 years in prison and $50,000 in fines. |
| $500- $2,500 | Up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. |
| Less than $500 | Up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines. |
Ref: Minnesota Statute §609.88
Minnesota Computer Theft – Laws & Penalties
If you are accused of either of the following, you could be charged with computer theft and sentenced accordingly:
- Intentionally and without permission, access any computer, system, network, or any part of for the purpose of obtaining services or property, or
- Intentionally and without permission intend to deprive the owner of use or possession by taking, transferring, concealing or retaining possession of any computer, system or network.
Like computer damage, the possible penalties for computer theft you face depends on the value of the loss involved:
| Value: | Potential Sentence: |
| More than $2,500 | Up to 10 years in prison and $50,000 in fines. |
| $500- $2,500 | Up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. |
| Less than $500 | Up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines. |
Ref: Minnesota Statute §609.89
Unauthorized Computer Access – Laws & Penalties
Unauthorized computer access (commonly called hacking) involves attempting to or penetrating a computer security system intentionally and without permission. Generally, a criminal hacking offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines reaching $1,000.
However, there are circumstances which can elevate this offense to a gross misdemeanor or even a felony:
Felony unauthorized computer access involves gaining access to a computer security system where the access creates the risk of causing death. This offense is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $20,000. Also, if convicted of 2 or more gross misdemeanor unauthorized computer access offenses, your next may be a felony.
Gross misdemeanor unauthorized computer access is committed by gaining access to a computer security system where the access either:
- causes a risk to public health or safety, or
- causes you to gain access to personal data, or
- this is your second or subsequent misdemeanor violation of unauthorized computer access.
Minnesota Statute §609.52
Get Help With What To Do Next With a Free Criminal Case Evaluation
Minnesota computer crimes are extensive and can be confusing. If you are facing any of these or other computer related crimes you need an experienced attorney to help you navigate the law and possible legal defense strategies you may need to pursue. Call us for a consultation on your case today.