Hacking and unauthorized access: Illegally accessing or using a computer, network, or electronic device without authorization. Hacking-related offenses can be prosecuted under the Florida Computer Crimes Act.

• Computer-related fraud and theft: Engaging in a scheme to defraud or obtain property through the use of a computer. This includes phishing scams that trick individuals into giving up personal financial information and identity theft.

• Cyberstalking and cyberbullying: Using electronic communication, such as emails, texts, or social media, to maliciously and repeatedly harass or cause emotional distress to another person. A specific law, the Jeffrey Johnston Stand Up for All Students Act, also prohibits cyberbullying of students.

• Malware and computer contamination: Knowingly and willingly introducing malicious software like viruses or ransomware to damage, disrupt, or make data inaccessible.

• Intellectual property offenses: Stealing or disclosing confidential or proprietary data and trade secrets from a computer, network, or electronic device.

• Crimes against public services: Disrupting or damaging the computer systems of government entities, public utilities (water, gas), or transportation systems. 

Penalties for cybercrimes

Florida law imposes significant penalties for cybercrime convictions, with fines and prison sentences often determined by the degree of the felony. 

Offense 

Penalty

First-degree misdemeanorMisdemeanors related to modifying computer equipment can result in up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine.Third-degree felonyUnauthorized access, hacking, or intellectual property offenses typically result in a fine of up to $5,000 and up to 5 years in prison.Second-degree felonyIf a cybercrime causes $5,000 or more in damage, involves a scheme to defraud, or disrupts public services, the penalties increase to up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.First-degree felonyThe most serious offenses, such as those that endanger human life, can result in up to 30 years in prison and fines of $10,000 or more.

How to report a cybercrime in Florida

If you are a victim of a cybercrime, you can report it to several agencies: 

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.

• Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE): Report the crime directly to the Cybercrime Office, especially if it involves government systems.

• Office of the Attorney General: The Cyber Fraud Enforcement Unit works with law enforcement agencies to prosecute cybercrimes. File a complaint via their website or hotline.

• Local law enforcement: Immediately report the incident to your local police or sheriff's office.