We as a society use the internet everyday. But the some of the things we unknowingly due online can be considered illegal. Innocent things like streaming a new movie in theaters or sharing certain photos can all be considered violations. Here are some of the more serious offenses you shouldn’t commit online
- Bullying and trolling – Cyberbullying and trolling are both commonplace given that more people have access to cellphones and the internet. Apps, on the other hand, now have the authority to take action against such individuals. There are various laws governing cyberbullying, which is normally considered as a civil problem but can sometimes result in criminal charges and jail time.
- Identity Fraud – Identity fraud is a crime when the goal is to deceive people or swindle the person themselves by using someone else’s information without their knowledge. Using an incorrect age on social media platforms violates the “terms of service,” and while not illegal, it is still harmful and may expose adolescents to decreased privacy.
- Illegal Searches – The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are frequently uninterested in what you are researching online. However, if you frequently seek for words, instructional materials, or other suspicious search terms that may suggest a desire to engage in illegal activity, you may end up on a government watchlist. Here are some of the things that are illegal to search. child pornography, hiring a criminal, and other questionable terms (e.g., bomb-making).
- Collecting information on children – The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (“COPPA”) specifically aims to protect the privacy of children under the age of 13 by requesting parental consent for the collection or use of any personal information of the users. A court can hold operators who violate the Rule liable for civil penalties of up to $50,120 per violation. COPPA gives states and certain federal agencies authority to enforce compliance with respect to entities over which they have jurisdiction.
- Extracting audio from YouTube – Copyrighted content cannot be downloaded or ripped without the explicit consent of the content owner, according to YouTube’s terms of service. Extracting audio for personal use is simply not permitted under US copyright rules.