Florida Email Hacking Laws

Most people are aware that opening another person’s mail without their consent is a crime. However, not as many know that the same is true for email. Email hacking is defined as the act of intentionally accessing another person’s email account without their permission. While this may not seem like a serious crime to some, especially for close acquaintances or those in a relationship, it is in fact treated as a felony in the state of Florida.

If you or someone you know has been accused of illegally hacking another person’s email account, an experienced legal representative can help you protect your rights. Contact the Boca Raton criminal defense lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A., at 561-353-2800 to discuss your case with an attorney and learn about your options.

Email Hacking Penalties

Email hacking is a crime regardless of the relationship between the victim and the hacker. Simply put, if you access another person’s email account without their permission, even if they have told you their password, you can be accused of email hacking and charged with serious criminal offenses. Email hacking cases are typically prosecuted under the following guidelines:

• Most instances of email hacking are prosecuted as a third-degree felony, punishable with fines of up to $5000 and imprisonment for up to 5 years

• If the email hacking was engaged in to defraud or steal from the victim, the charge is upgraded to a second-degree felony, punishable with fines up to $10,000 and up to 15 years imprisonment.

While it may seem like an innocent or minor act, email hacking is treated very seriously in the state of Florida. Knowing your rights is crucial to ensuring that you aren’t punished for a crime that you did not commit.

Contact Us

If you have been accused of email hacking, you should obtain legal representation immediately. Email hacking carries severe fines and penalties, and a conviction may permanently damage your personal and professional reputation. Contact the Boca Raton criminal defense attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A., at 561-353-2800 to begin formulating your defense.