The Computer Misuse Act was passed in 1990 and amended in 2006 to tackle the issues of cyber crime, computer hacking fraud and IT crime.
The Computer Misuse Act makes illegal:
The Fraud Act was also introduced in 2006 and created a general offence of fraud, including three ways in which fraud might be committed:
Whether a computer or IT system is hacked for criminal purposes or because a hacker believes they are exposing information which should be in the public domain a conviction for computer hacking and IT crime potentially carries a long custodial sentence.
Because cyber crime often crosses jurisdictions, it can be extremely complex to prosecute and defend. Also, allegations of computer hacking or IT crime may involve extradition to another country to face charges.
It is vital to take legal advice from a specialist fraud solicitor with expertise in defending cases involving cyber crime and computer hacking.
Our fraud solicitors can advise on allegations or charges relating to computer hacking and IT crime before a charge is brought or if there is a possibility allegations of cyber crime might be made in the future.
We can also liaise with agencies involved in serious fraud investigations and cyber crime, including:
Duncan Lewis' Crime department has been recognised as a Top Tier and recommended criminal defence practice by Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500 edition for its General Crime and Fraud work.
Our fraud solicitors have acknowledged expertise in case building based on a sound knowledge of the criminal justice system and the ability to assemble compelling evidence and documentation in computer hacking and IT crime cases.
Our lawyers are able to represent clients at police stations, Magistrates’ Courts, Crown Courts, and the Court of Appeal. The team also includes highly experienced Higher Court Advocates with a background in conducting serious fraud cases.
There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales and our fraud lawyers can usually reach a client at a police station or court within 45 minutes to advise on cyber crime fraud charges.
We aim for the best possible outcome for clients facing fraud charges – call us during office hours on 0333 772 0409 for expert legal advice on computer hacking and IT crime charges.
For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Emergency Hotline on 0333 772 0607.
Duncan Lewis advises clients who are facing fraud charges, or who may be interviewed in relation to cyber crime allegations, to contact us as soon as possible.
Our fraud solicitors can advise even before a charge for computer hacking or IT crime is brought, and a solicitor from our specialist fraud department can attend a police station fraud interview conducted by the police, Serious Fraud Office or HMRC.
Duncan Lewis is a leading provider of Legal Aid criminal defence services. Legal Aid is means tested and may only be available in certain circumstances, our team can advise further on this at the initial client meeting.
In cases where a client may not be eligible for Legal Aid, we offer competitively priced fee levels for private client representation – with fixed fees and advance notice of any costs whenever possible.
In some criminal cases, ‘after the event’ (ATE) insurance may be an option and our lawyers will advise on an appropriate level of insurance to cover the potential costs of defending a criminal case and to pay any costs imposed by the court.
Call Duncan Lewis Fraud Solicitors to discuss computer hacking charges or IT crime on 0333 772 0409.