College students frequently use computers for tasks and assignments on campus. Cybercrimes are defined as crimes involving the internet or a computer. These actions may also violate the school’s policies.
Students may encounter situations that qualify as computer or cybercrimes. Universities treat such incidents seriously, and a student may discover that breaking the law or violating school policies may endanger their academic and career goals.
If you’re a student in Texas facing cybercrime charges, connecting with our team of Texas Student Cybercrime Defense Attorneys is imperative. Consulting with our criminal defense attorneys early on helps you kickstart the process of building a solid case.
Types of Cyber and Internet Crimes on Campus
Cyber and computer crimes take various forms, and there are specific types that typically occur on campuses. These include:
- Cyberstalking
- Cyberbullying
- Exposing private photos
- Hacking
- Plagiarism
- Unauthorized Access to Computer Systems
- Identity Theft
- Manipulating Grades
Potential Consequences of Cybercrimes for Students in Texas
Some cybercrimes can be handled by the federal government, but not all are automatically federal crimes. It depends on the nature and scope of the crime.
Cybercrimes can be handled by both the state and federal governments. Students aren’t immune from these charges. If they break the law, they can be charged under federal rules like the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) or the Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution Act.
Here are some general categories of penalties that may apply to cybercrimes in Texas:
Criminal Penalties:
- A Class C misdemeanor incurs a fine of up to $500 as a penalty.
- For a Class B misdemeanor, the penalties include 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
- A Class A misdemeanor leads to one year in Harris County jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
- A state jail felony carries possible penalties of 180 days to 2 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- A third-degree felony results in 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- For a second-degree felony, the penalties involve 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- A first-degree felony entails 5 to 99 years of life imprisonment, along with a fine of up to $10,000.
Academic Consequences:
- Universities may impose disciplinary actions, such as suspension or expulsion, for students involved in cybercrimes.
Restitution:
- Offenders may be required to compensate victims for any damages incurred as a result of the cybercrime.
Civil Lawsuits:
- Victims may pursue civil lawsuits against offenders to seek damages for losses suffered due to the cybercrime.
Legal Defenses for Student Cybercrimes in Texas
Several potential legal defenses may be explored for student cybercrimes in Texas, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. It’s crucial to consult with our team of experienced student cybercrime lawyers to determine the most effective strategy. Some possible legal defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: The student didn’t mean to do anything wrong. Demonstrate that the actions were unintentional or lacked malicious intent.
- Dispute Unauthorized Access: Argue that the student had permission or thought they did when accessing the computer systems. Question the notion that it was deemed unauthorized.
- Insufficient Evidence: Question if there’s enough proof while ensuring that the evidence, especially the digital proof, is reliable.
- Constitutional Violations: Demonstrate that the police didn’t follow the proper procedures during their investigation. If they did not follow procedure, the evidence might not be admissible in court.
- Mistaken Identity: Argue that they got the wrong person. Create doubt in the student’s involvement in the alleged crime.
Consult with Texas Criminal Defense Group Today
We are a team of highly skilled and experienced Student Cybercrime Defense lawyers at your disposal. Our goal is always to get your case dismissed, and we use our large docket and experience to your advantage in that regard.
At Texas Criminal Defense Group, cost-of-trial is always included in our fees should that be an advantageous route for your case, and our dedication to the pursuit of Justice shows in over 500 5-star reviews from our hundreds of satisfied clients.
With offices conveniently located throughout Texas, our law firm ensures accessibility for students facing cybercrime charges across the state.
Contact us today to begin your free consultation.