Dumas Cybercrime Defense Attorneys

With over two decades of legal experience, our defense attorneys are committed to standing up for those accused of cybercrimes. This is a complex area of law that is constantly evolving. As such, our team stays up to date on state and federal laws and the rapid changes in the technological landscape. If you are facing accusations of cybercrime, from hacking to identity theft, trust us to fight for you.

Call (806) 352-4844 to request a free consultation with one of our Dumas cybercrime defense attorneys. We can conduct these meetings in person or virtually, depending on what is most convenient for you.

What Are Cybercrimes Under Texas Law?

As the name suggests, cybercrimes are offenses committed using the internet, computers, or other digital technologies. According to the Texas Penal Code, cybercrimes (called “computer crimes”) include numerous actions that range from online impersonation to breaching computer security and online solicitation of a minor.

Below, we detail these and other common Texas cybercrimes: 

Unauthorized Access to a Computer or Network

It is illegal to “knowingly access a computer, computer network, or computer system without the effective consent of the owner.” This could include hacking into someone’s social media account or accessing confidential information on a company’s network.

Online Impersonation

Online impersonation is when someone uses someone’s name or identity to “harm, defraud, intimidate, or threaten” another. Creating fake social media profiles or sending emails pretending to be someone else are examples of this offense. Breaching Computer Security

The state has made it illegal to gain unauthorized access to a computer or network for the purpose of obtaining private information or causing some kind of damage.

Online Solicitation of a Minor

The Texas Penal Code defines this crime as communicating with a minor (someone under 17) online in an attempt to commit a sexual offense. Examples include sending sexually explicit messages or soliciting an inappropriate image.

Unlawful Decryption

Decrypting an encrypted private message or protected information is a criminal offense.

Penalties for Cybercrimes in Texas

The penalties for cybercrimes depend on the specific offense. These offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with potential consequences including fines, probation, and even imprisonment.

For example, unauthorized access to a computer or network is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000. On the other hand, online solicitation of a minor is a second-degree felony that could result in up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

How Our Lawyers Defend Against Charges of Cybercrime

Facing any criminal charge can be terrifying and make you concerned for what comes next. In this difficult time, know you have an advocate in Tisdell Law Firm. Our Dumas cybercrime defense lawyers can fight for you, utilizing extensive experience and legal know-how.

In cybercrime cases, our team may employ the following defense strategies: 

• Challenging evidence – Cybercrime involves a lot of digital evidence, which can be open to interpretation or obtained illegally. Our attorneys can heavily scrutinize evidence and challenge its validity.
• Proving lack of intent – Many cybercrimes require proof that you knowingly and intentionally committed the offense. We may be able to show that there was no intention on your part, which could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
• Asserting your rights – Like other crimes, law enforcement must follow certain procedures when making arrests and gathering evidence. If they did something improperly or illegally, we could use that to defend you.
• Negotiating plea deals – In some cases, it may be in your best interest to negotiate a plea deal with prosecutors. If this is true for you, we can go toe-to-toe with the prosecution and work to settle the most favorable terms possible.

Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Future

Do not wait to contact Tisdell Law Firm if you have been arrested for a cybercrime. With our experience, track record, and commitment to doing what is best for clients, we are a firm you can completely trust to handle your case. Are you interested in seeing what we can offer? Visit our Representative Cases page to see the results we have obtained for those who put their faith—and futures—in our hands.

Call (806) 352-4844 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how we can help you. Our firm serves those in Potter, Randall, and Oldham counties and beyond.