Being accused, charged, or found guilty of hacking brings serious life-altering consequences. Under the cfaa, causing damage to protected computers is a punishable offense. What are the criminal penalties for hacking? Trafficking in passwords or access devices. First-time offenders can face fines and up to one year in prison. Is computer hacking a federal crime? For more help to protect yourself against accusations of a computer crime, talk to a criminal defense lawyer. · accessing someone’s computer or network without their permission is a crime under both federal and state laws in the united states. Particularly severe penalties apply to those who intentionally damage protected computers through knowing transmission of malicious code. · this article contains information about hacking laws and punishments. These laws protect digital information for individuals, businesses, and government agencies by addressing a wide range of unauthorized computer-related activities. · although sometimes described as an anti- hacking law, the cfaa covers more than just hacking. This encompasses unauthorized access leading to damage to data, programs, systems, or information (for example, by transmitting/planting a computer virus). It also discusses remedies for hacking victims. First convictions can result in up to 10 years imprisonment, while second convictions may lead to 20-year sentences. The statute prohibits seven categories of conduct involving unauthorized access to computers, including, with certain exceptions and conditions: Discover the legal penalties for hacking and computer misuse, including recent reforms, case studies, and strategies to ensure compliance under the law. Keep reading to learn more about the repercussions of hacking and what to do if you’re accused. There are a number of different computer crimes, but hacking is one that gains a lot of attention.