Computer and Internet Cybercrime Lawyers

Legal Services | Computer and Internet Cybercrime

Computer and Internet Cybercrime Lawyers

Consumers who use digital technology grows are increasingly subject to digital crimes. In Canada, cybercrime is considered a serious offence.

Have you been accused, or are you under investigation for any computer-related criminal offence? You need a trusted and reliable cybercrime lawyer that can fully understand your rights. 

The impact of cybercrime can be profound for both individuals and corporations as they can represent financial damage and reputational loss. Contact Davidson Gregory; our experienced Edmonton lawyers will help you navigate the process and provide legal guidance.

We can help individuals from anywhere in Western Canada and the Northwest Territories. If you’re unable to reach our Edmonton offices for a consultation, we are able to discuss your matter at your convenience via telephone or the online video platform of your choice (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc). Where appropriate, we can also arrange travel to you. Our aim is to ensure that you can access legal advice as easily as possible.

What is Cybercrime?

Cybercrime (also also referred to as computer crime) can be defined as any unlawful action where a cyber element (computers, mobile devices or their systems) is used to commit a criminal offence.

Cybercrime ranges across a spectrum of activities. The RCMP divides it into two categories: 

  • Technology-as-target: this generally involves the unauthorized use of computers and data. 
  • Technology-as-instrument: where the internet and information technologies play an important role in a crime. 

Examples of Cybercrime

  • Hacking 
  • Piracy 
  • Intellectual Property 
  • Cyberstalking/Harassment 
  • Distributing intimate images online 
  • Theft of telecommunication devices/services without payment
  • Phishing 
  • Privacy Violation 
  • Scams 
  • Spamming
  • Online credit card fraud

Cybercrime From the Law Perspective

Cybercrimes are considered a national security threat and can have implications both in the local and global landscape. However, because of their digital nature, computer crimes are complex and can be hard to prosecute.

Cybercrime can be challenging to report, especially when it involves cyber elements or people who are not under their jurisdiction. Nonetheless, cybercrime can encompass more traditional crimes. 

Our Cybercrime Lawyers

If you are charged with cybercrime activities in Edmonton or in Western Canada, ensure you talk to one of our lawyers ,who have decades of experience in criminal defence. For any other assistance related to cyber security, contact our team. 

Choose Davidson Gregory to Defend Your Cybercrime Case in Edmonton and Western Canada.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Crime

Is cybercrime the same as computer crime?

Generally speaking, these terms are interchangeable but the common thread of “cybercrime” or “computer crime” involves theft of funds, services, telecommunication, credit card/bank fraud and the unlawful distribution of intimate images.

There are many types of criminal offences that are general and specific to computers.  The primary type of offence is using online advertising to sell an item that does not exist or the unlawful use of computers to steal credit card information. Both phrases involve the theft of funds using the internet.

The distribution of intimate images without the person’s consent is also an offence under the Criminal Code and may be considered a “cybercrime” or a “computer crime”.

Stealing telecommunications or devices is also considered a cybercrime. Unauthorized use of a computer is also outlined in the Criminal Code.

Who investigates cybercrimes in Canada?

Generally speaking, the local police service will investigate cybercrime, usually in a specialized unit. If the scope of the investigation is national, the RCMP may engage in a multi-provincial investigation. However, specialized police units typically investigate cyber crimes.

Is cybercrime punishable in the Criminal Code?

There are many sections of the Criminal Code that contemplate online fraud, theft, unlawful use of a computer, the distribution of intimate images, to name a few examples. The Crown may proceed by summary conviction or by indictment. Depending on the seriousness of the offence, the Crown prosecutor may seek a term of imprisonment. Quite often a prosecutor who specializes in cybercrime will be assigned to this area of criminal law.