Types of Internet Crimes in Texas

With over 4 billion people connected to the internet, it’s no surprise that the digital world has become a hotbed for criminal activity. Every day, thousands fall victim to cyber crimes ranging from identity theft to revenge porn. In Texas, the laws are stringent, and the penalties are severe.

Let’s delve into the most common internet crimes in Texas, understand how to protect yourself, and know what to do if you ever face charges.

Common Internet Crimes in Texas

Understanding computer crimes is crucial for protecting yourself and your loved ones. Here’s a clear breakdown of the most common types of internet crimes in Texas:

Identity Theft (Texas Penal Code §32.51)

Identity theft involves stealing personal information, such as Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, and bank account information, to commit fraud.

Penalties for Identity Theft:

In Texas, it is classified as a state jail felony, with:

• • Imprisonment for up to 10 years.
  • Alongside fines of up to $10,000.

For higher-value theft or aggravating factors, it could become a higher-level felony.

Hacking or Unauthorized Access (Texas Penal Code §33.02)

Hacking, also known as unauthorized access, happens when someone illegally enters a computer system to steal, alter, or destroy information and spread computer viruses. This can include hacking into social media accounts or corporate databases.

Penalties for Unauthorized Access

Can result in a Class B misdemeanor:

• • Punishable by up to 180 days in jail.
  • A fine of up to $2,000.

Penalties can potentially reach a third-degree felony, particularly for harming computer systems or committing fraud.

Child Pornography and Online Solicitation of a Minor (Texas Penal Code §43.26)

It involves the production, distribution, or possession of child pornography and the online solicitation of minors for sexual purposes.

Child Pornography Penalties:

• • Possession: Classified as a third-degree felony, punishable by imprisonment for 2 to 10 years and a penalty amounting to a maximum of $10,000.
  • Promotion or Distribution: Classified as a second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Online Solicitation of Minor Penalties:

• • Classified as a second-degree felony if the minor is younger than 14 years old, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a penalty amounting to a maximum of $10,000.
  • Classified as a third-degree felony if the minor is 14 years of age or older, it is punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.

In addition to these penalties, individuals convicted of these offenses must register as sex offenders.

Cyberbullying (Texas Education Code §37.0832)

Cyberbullying involves using the internet to harass, threaten, or intimidate someone. This can include sending threatening messages, spreading rumors, or sharing embarrassing photos or videos to harm another person’s reputation or emotional well-being.

Penalties for Online Harassment 

• • Class B Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: If the offender has previously been convicted of harassment or if the victim is under 18 years old and targeted with the intent to cause them to commit suicide or harm themselves, it is punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.

Penalties for Online Stalking

• • Third-Degree Felony: Punishable by a jail term ranging from 2 to 10 years and a fine that could go up to $10,000.
  • Second-Degree Felony: If the offender has previously been convicted of stalking, it is punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a penalty reaching as high as $10,000.

Online Fraud and Scams (Texas Penal Code §33.02 & §32.31)

Online fraud and scams involve deceptive schemes through various digital platforms, such as email, websites, or social media, intended to deceive individuals or businesses for financial gain.

Penalties for Online Fraud

Class B Misdemeanor: Unauthorized access without any other aggravating factors.

• • Up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.

State Jail Felony: If the unauthorized access involves obtaining a significant amount of money, property, or services, or if it results in significant damage.

• • 180 days to 2 years in a state jail and a penalty amounting to a maximum of $10,000.

Third-Degree Felony: If the offense involves intent to defraud or harm, causing losses or damage exceeding $2,500.

• • Imprisonment for 2 to 10 years and a fine that could go up to $10,000

First-Degree Felony: If the breach results in substantial economic or physical harm or affects critical infrastructure.

• • 5 to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Revenge Porn (Texas Penal Code §21.16)

Revenge porn involves the unlawful distribution of intimate or explicit images or videos of another person without their consent. This typically occurs after a relationship has ended, with the intent to humiliate, harass, or harm the individual depicted.

Penalties for Revenge Porn

• • Typically, a state jail felony
  • 180 days to 2 years in state jail
  • A fine of up to $10,000

Arrested? Don’t Plea, Call Me!

Internet crimes in Texas can lead to severe penalties, including fines and long prison sentences. It’s crucial to understand the legal consequences and seek professional legal help if you’re facing charges. The Texas Criminal Defense Group offers expert guidance and defense. Contact our experienced attorneys to navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights.