{"id":358020,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:21","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/internet-cyberspace-law.html"},"modified":"2024-12-02T12:45:00","modified_gmt":"2024-12-02T17:45:00","slug":"internet-cyberspace-law","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/internet-cyberspace-law.html","title":{"rendered":"What Does Internet and Cyberspace Law Cover?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">What Does Internet and Cyberspace Law Cover?<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/natalie-moritz\/\">Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/laura-temme-esq\/\">Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            December 02, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">Internet and cyberspace law governs the legal issues that arise from online activity, digital communication, and emerging technologies. If you\u2019re affected by a digital privacy breach, online fraud, or another internet\u2011related issue, a cyberlaw attorney can help pursue appropriate legal remedies.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>This area of law addresses the challenges and legal questions in today&#8217;s digital age. Some legal areas cyberlaw covers include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Online privacy<\/li>\n<li>E-commerce<\/li>\n<li>Intellectual property<\/li>\n<li>Cybersecurity and cybercrimes<\/li>\n<li>Cyberbullying<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This article reviews internet and cyberspace law. It covers the different types of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/cyber-crimes.html\">cyber crimes<\/a> and the legal protections available. You&#8217;ll also learn how <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/internet-cyberspace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cyberspace attorneys<\/a> can help you recover damages from\u00a0online fraud, identity theft, bullying, or other online harms.<\/p>\n<h2>Data Privacy Breaches and Hackers<\/h2>\n<p>Access to the internet comes with hackers and data breach risks, which can affect the privacy of your personal information. It&#8217;s not uncommon to hear about data privacy breaches at big companies. Even major corporations with vigorous\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/liability-and-insurance\/cyber-attacks-small-business-guide.html\">cybersecurity<\/a>\u00a0can get hacked, compromising customers&#8217; private data.<\/p>\n<p>Companies are responsible for protecting your personal information. Organizations need a robust cybersecurity strategy to protect their digital assets and customer data. Some key elements of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy can include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Risk assessment and management, including regular assessments of vulnerabilities and threats<\/li>\n<li>Security policies and procedures that outline acceptable use, data protections, and incident response<\/li>\n<li>Access control ensures employees only have access to data and systems they need to do their jobs<\/li>\n<li>Data protection and network security (like firewalls and intrusion detection systems)<\/li>\n<li>Endpoint security (like anti-malware software and patch management)<\/li>\n<li>Physical security that restricts access to areas that house sensitive information<\/li>\n<li>A clear incident response plan and a dedicated incident response team<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Many companies also use\u00a0artificial intelligence (AI)\u00a0and machine learning as part of their cybersecurity measures.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes, companies still <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/protecting-customer-data.html\">fail to protect their customers&#8217; data<\/a>. Facebook, Amazon, and Dell are just a few examples of corporate giants whose security has been compromised by hackers.<\/p>\n<p>There are sometimes legal remedies for those whose information has been exposed in a data breach. For example, those whose personal information was compromised may be able to start or join a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/how-to-file-a-class-action-lawsuit.html\">class-action lawsuit<\/a>\u00a0against the company. To succeed, they must show that the company mishandled their data.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll want to work with an attorney specializing in class-action lawsuits. These cases often\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/what-does-it-mean-to-settle-a-case.html\">end in settlements<\/a>, and an experienced attorney can help maximize settlement amounts.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s not always practical for a person to pursue legal action against the hacker. Hackers are often outside the U.S. and difficult to find. But you can still report the incident to authorities, who can pursue\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/hacking-laws-and-punishments.html\">criminal charges<\/a>. Depending on the scope and specifics of the hack, federal law enforcement agencies (like the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fbi.gov\/investigate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FBI<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dhs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Department of Homeland Security<\/a>) may take over an investigation.<\/p>\n<h2>Other Types of Common Cyberattacks<\/h2>\n<p>Not all cyberattacks involve data breaches at companies. Other\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/computer-crime.html\">common cyberattacks<\/a>\u00a0happen on a personal level, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/phishing-scams.html\">Phishing<\/a>:\u00a0A crime using a false identity to convince unsuspecting people to disclose personally identifying information<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.ftc.gov\/articles\/how-recognize-remove-avoid-malware\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Malware<\/a>:\u00a0Software that attacks a computer so it can&#8217;t operate properly and allows criminals access to your personal information<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/identity-theft.html\">Identity theft<\/a>:\u00a0A crime that happens when someone uses another person&#8217;s data, like their Social Security number or credit card number, to conduct business<\/li>\n<li>Man-in-the-middle attacks:\u00a0This happens when a digital attacker intercepts messages between two parties who believe they are communicating directly with each other. This allows the attacker to steal data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Protecting Yourself From Cyber Threats<\/h2>\n<p>You can\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/online-scams\/online-safety.html\">protect yourself<\/a>\u00a0from cyber threats in several ways. Use strong passwords and enable\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cisa.gov\/MFA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">multi-factor authentication (MFA)<\/a>\u00a0when available. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a text code sent or an authentication app.<\/p>\n<p>Be cautious with emails and links. Always verify the sender&#8217;s email address and check the domain name in hyperlinks before providing private data, like your credit card number.<\/p>\n<p>If your information was breached in a data privacy leak, you can also consider\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/credit-freeze\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">freezing your credit reporting accounts<\/a>. A credit freeze (or security freeze) restricts access to your credit report. This means potential creditors can&#8217;t access your credit file, making it harder for cyber criminals to open new accounts in your name.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re still affected by a cybercrime, an attorney can help you assess the full extent of the damage caused. This includes financial losses, identity theft, and emotional distress. Your attorney can also <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/internet-cyberspace?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pursue fair compensation<\/a>\u00a0for your losses.<\/p>\n<h2>Cyberbullying and the Law<\/h2>\n<p>The internet allows people to connect easily. But this communication accessibility can have negative repercussions.<\/p>\n<p>People can use social media and email to bully others or gang up on someone anonymously. This is especially true for teenagers: the attacks can impact their mental health and social life. As a parent, watch for\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.stopbullying.gov\/cyberbullying\/prevention\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">warning signs<\/a>\u00a0and talk to your teens if you suspect they are facing bullying. It&#8217;s also crucial to check in with your child if you suspect they may be\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/is-your-child-a-bully-.html\">bullying someone<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Many states now have criminal laws involving cyberbullying. Those\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/cyberbullying-and-social-media.html\">experiencing cyberbullying<\/a>\u00a0(or their parents) may be able to file charges against who is causing the problems. You could pursue several potential legal claims, depending on the circumstances and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/student-conduct-and-discipline\/specific-state-laws-against-bullying.html\">your state&#8217;s laws<\/a>. Some legal claims related to cyberbullying include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/defamation-and-social-media-what-you-need-to-know.html\">Defamation<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Emotional distress<\/li>\n<li>Harassment<\/li>\n<li>Cyberstalking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/internet-cyberspace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cyberlaw attorney<\/a>\u00a0can help in these situations. They can provide legal advice, file a claim, and pursue an appropriate legal remedy.<\/p>\n<h2>Internet and Cyberspace Legal Issues<\/h2>\n<p>The internet gives us many ways to conduct business and gain information on various topics. Unfortunately, this access to information comes with risks. Those risks may need help from cyber lawyers,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-lawyer-resources\/when-do-i-need-a-business-lawyer-for-my-small-business.html\">business lawyers<\/a>, or internet law experts.<\/p>\n<p>First is the unprecedented ability to gather and maintain large amounts of data. In the past, basic information on a person was difficult to find. Now computers can store large amounts of information.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dhs.gov\/publication\/data-mining-and-analysis-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Data mining algorithms<\/a>\u00a0can use the data to create complete portraits of people.<\/p>\n<p>Data protection has become a huge issue for service providers, companies, and people. Many lawmakers are looking at policies that balance privacy with some use of the data.<\/p>\n<p>Computers and the internet affect many other areas of law and cause legal issues. The ability to copy and send\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/copyrights.html\">copyrighted works<\/a>\u00a0presents new problems for intellectual property lawyers. Those include copyright infringement and stolen trade secrets.<\/p>\n<h2>How To Find a Cyberlaw Attorney<\/h2>\n<p>Professional legal services are available for internet-related concerns. You may want to consult an attorney with expertise in information technology, small business, or criminal issues. An experienced attorney\u00a0can look at your situation and recommend next steps.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw&#8217;s directory of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/internet-cyberspace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">internet and cyberspace lawyers<\/a> can get you started. Because state law is relevant, your attorney should be licensed in your state. Enter your city and ZIP code for a list of qualified legal professionals near you. Many law offices offer free case evaluations.<\/p>\n<h2>Cyberlaw: Related Practice Areas<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/intellectual-property-law.html\">Intellectual property<\/a>:\u00a0Intellectual property can get stolen over the internet because it&#8217;s so easy to copy data<i>.<\/i><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/invasion-of-privacy.html\">Privacy law<\/a>:\u00a0The internet allows entities to take information that was once private or semi-private.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/business-and-commercial-law.html\">E-commerce and business law<\/a>:\u00a0The internet allows companies to reach customers and create business opportunities, but corporations must do so safely.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/consumer-law.html\">Consumer law<\/a>:\u00a0Some vendors use the internet to scam consumers and sell products that do not meet the U.S.&#8217;s safety standards.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/criminal-law.html\">Criminal law<\/a>:\u00a0Stealing another person&#8217;s identifying information and using it without permission is a crime. Cyberbullying is also a crime in many states.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>See these articles for related information and resources:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/cyber-crimes.html\">Cyber Crimes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/corporate.findlaw.com\/law-library\/cyberspace-harassment.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cyberspace Harassment<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legal\/technology\/modern-law-practice\/the-ethical-considerations-of-cybersecurity.html\">The Ethical Considerations of Cybersecurity<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/cyber-attacks-a-guide-for-small-businesses.html\">Protect Your Business from Cyber Attacks<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help with business disputes involving e\u2011commerce issues, website terms, or intellectual property\n<div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\"><\/div>\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Legal help is key if a company mishandled your private information or failed to follow data privacy laws\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some minor issues can be handled on your own, like a hacked social media account\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Not all bad situations require a lawyer. And some good circumstances can be even better with an attorney&#8217;s help. An lawyer can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum\" title=\"Search Top Lawyers Near You\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAAABGBEkK9kEeKxO-\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n                        Search Top Lawyers Near You\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer.html\">\n                        Choosing the Right Lawyer\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/do-you-need-a-lawyer.html\">\n                        Do I Need a Lawyer?\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/attorney-fees-and-agreements.html\">\n                        Attorney Fees &#038; Fee Arrangements\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Search Top Lawyers Near You<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/legal-issues\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Full List of Legal Issues<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw explains internet law and cyberlaw. Learn what legal issues and cyber crimes are governed by cyberlaw, how to find the right attorney, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":357959,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2754],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-358020","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-hirealawyer"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/358020","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=358020"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/358020\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":392060,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/358020\/revisions\/392060"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357959"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=358020"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=358020"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=358020"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=358020"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=358020"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}