In what he admitted was a “terrible joke” between friends, a Wisconsin teen has been arrested for an illegal posting on social media - a growing problem among youth who sometimes do not understand the consequences of their actions online. To avoid problems, users should be aware of common crimes linked to social media or resulting from its use.
Crimes of Cyberbullying, Threats and Stalking
The most commonly reported crimes that occur on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram and the like involve people making threats, bullying, harassing and even stalking. If someone feels threatened by a statement made online, it is indeed a police matter regardless of the whether the person making the statements is a minor or an adult.
Hacking into Someone’s Social Media Account and Fraud
It is illegal to log onto another person’s social media account, even a pal, as is creating impersonation accounts, which can be punished as fraud depending on the actions taken.
Buying Drugs Online and Other No No’s
E-commerce is booming and it would seem like everything goes when it comes to the internet, especially to youth who have grown up with it. However, using social media to buy drugs or other regulated, controlled or banned products can result in criminal charges.
Crimes Captured on Live Cam
There have been several crimes broadcast on social media, which often leads police straight to the perpetrators. Smartphones and social media go hand and hand, but posting criminal activity can land criminals in jail as well as those who film illegal activity to post as entertainment on a social media site.
Vacation Burglary
Kids or their parents may be excited at the prospect of going on vacation, but letting the world know via social media is often a mistake. A common practice among burglars is to use social media to find potential victims who are heading out of town so they know exactly when to strike. Sometimes it is not a break in you need to worry about, but a group of school mates seizing the opportunity to take a dip in a pool or have a place to hang out while the home owners are away. Either way, it is a crime so it is better to be discreet when sharing your plans to avoid problems.
Contact Our Waukesha, Wisconsin Internet Crimes Criminal Defense Lawyers for Help
The phenomenon of social networking crime is on the rise. There are many offences involving social media such as harassment or genuine threats of violence, stalking, racially aggravated conduct, fraud and sex crimes, which can lead to serious consequences. If you or a family member is charged with an internet crime, it is important to seek the help of an experienced Internet crimes criminal defense lawyer - contact the Waukesha criminal defense law offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC for immediate assistance at 262-542-3900.
