{"id":373530,"date":"2016-03-31T21:35:21","date_gmt":"2016-04-01T02:35:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/kentucky-law\/kentucky-computer-crimes-laws.html"},"modified":"2016-06-20T19:49:10","modified_gmt":"2016-06-21T00:49:10","slug":"kentucky-computer-crimes-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/kentucky-law\/kentucky-computer-crimes-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"Kentucky Computer Crimes Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Kentucky Computer Crimes Laws<\/h1>\n
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Created by FindLaw’s team<\/a> of legal writers and editors<\/i><\/p>\n\n | Last updated\n

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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

With the advent of modern technology, especially the use of computers and electronic information in our everyday work and personal lives, computer crimes<\/a> have become a constant threat. Many states across the country have developed laws to address these computer and internet-based crimes, including online scams<\/a> and cyberbullying<\/a>. Kentucky is no exception.<\/p>\n

The following table outlines Kentucky\u2019s computer crime laws<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n
Code Section<\/b><\/td>\nKentucky Revised Statutes Sections:
\n434.845 \u2013 Unlawful Access to a Computer in the 1st Degree<\/a>
\n434.850 \u2013 Unlawful Access to a Computer in the 2nd Degree<\/a>
\n434.851 \u2013 Unlawful Access to a Computer in the 3rd Degree<\/a>
\n434.852 \u2013 Unlawful Access to a Computer in the 4th Degree<\/a>
\n434.855 \u2013 Misuse of Computer Information<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>
What Is Prohibited?<\/b><\/td>\nUnlawful access to a computer is knowingly and willfully, directly or indirectly, accessing or attempting to access any computer or its software, program, data, or network. The degree or level for punishment is determined by the amount of damage done and the intent, as follows:
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Penalties<\/b><\/td>\nThe penalties vary based on the degree of the crime and the class of felony or misdemeanor associated with the crime. The unlawful access to a computer punishment ranges are:
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Attempted Computer Crimes<\/b><\/td>\nIn some states, like Indiana<\/a>, attempted computer crimes aren\u2019t subject to criminal penalties, however, in Kentucky they are.<\/td>\n<\/tr>
Civil Lawsuits<\/b><\/td>\nKentucky law doesn\u2019t provide for a civil remedy, that is the ability to sue a person specifically for the computer crime. Other states, like Tennessee<\/a>, do have a statutory provision allowing for certain civil lawsuits.<\/td>\n<\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\n

If you or a loved one has been charged with a computer-related crime, you should seek the advice of an experienced Kentucky criminal defense lawyer<\/a>. Generally speaking, having quality representation will result in better outcomes when you find yourself in criminal court.<\/p>\n

Note:<\/i><\/b> As state and federal laws change regularly, it\u2019s important to verify any laws you\u2019re researching by conducting your own legal research or contacting a knowledgeable attorney.<\/i><\/p>\n

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