Cybercrime is becoming a bigger concern as technology advances. Criminals have found new ways to exploit personal and business information, and the results can be devastating. In Georgia, there are specific laws in place to help victims of cybercrime understand their rights and take legal action.
Types of Cybercrime You Should Know About
In Georgia, cybercrimes fall under the Georgia Computer Systems Protection Act. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Computer Theft: This is when someone uses a computer to steal data or property without permission.
- Computer Trespass: This occurs when someone accesses a computer system without authorization and interferes with the data, often altering or deleting it.
- Computer Invasion of Privacy: This occurs when someone uses a computer to access private data, such as personal or financial information, without permission.
- Computer Forgery: In this case, data is altered or created for fraudulent purposes.
These crimes carry serious penalties, including fines of up to $50,000 and prison sentences of up to 15 years.
What Are Your Rights as a Victim?
If you are a victim of cybercrime in Georgia, you have several legal rights. You can pursue criminal charges, but you can also file a civil lawsuit to recover any damages you suffered. This can include the recovery of lost profits and expenses caused by the crime.
Georgia also has a Security Breach Notification Law. This law requires companies to notify you if your personal information has been compromised in a data breach. This is important because it gives you the chance to protect yourself and take steps to minimize further damage.
What Happens If You Are Accused?
If you are facing cybercrime charges, there are defenses you can use. For example, if you had permission to access the data, that could be a strong defense. It is also possible to argue that the access was accidental. However, the legal system is complex, and having a good attorney is key.
Take Action to Protect Yourself
Whether you are a victim or facing charges, cybercrime is serious. Understanding your legal rights is the first step in dealing with it. If you need help, The Williams Litigation Group is ready to provide the legal representation you need.