Unauthorized access to a computer system, commonly known as "hacking," involves breaching any cybersecurity barrier and entering a closed system, server, or personal device without the owner's permission. In Georgia, this is regulated under Article 284 of the Criminal Code. The law is strict: the act of intrusion itself is punishable, regardless of whether data was stolen or destroyed. Hacking charges can be brought against professional cybercriminals as well as IT specialists, students, or curious individuals who attempted to "test" a system without authorization. This is a high-tech crime requiring specific technical knowledge for investigation and defense. Charges are often based on insufficient digital evidence or misinterpretation of IP addresses.
What Does Hacking Defense Service Cover?
Lawyers available on Legal.ge offer qualified defense based on technical and legal analysis:
- Digital Forensics: Verification of logs, IP addresses, and traffic analysis underlying the accusation by independent experts.
- Establishing Authorization Limits: Arguing that the individual had some level of access (e.g., as an employee) and the act was not entirely "unauthorized."
- Ruling Out Technical Circumstances: Proving that the accused's computer was itself infected with a virus (botnet) and the attack was launched without their will.
- Proving Lack of Intent: Building a defense strategy around the fact that the intrusion was accidental or served no malicious purpose.
- Procedural Defense: Ensuring legality during searches and seizure of computer equipment.
Common Situations and Scenarios
Hacking charges are often related to:
- Wi-Fi Cracking: Breaking into a neighbor's or office's secured network by cracking the password.
- Social Media Hacking: Guessing passwords and logging into someone else's Facebook or Instagram profile.
- Corporate Systems: A former employee using old passwords to access company databases.
- Website Defacement: Changing the visual appearance of a site for hooligan or political motives.
Georgian Legal Framework
Article 284 of the Criminal Code of Georgia provides for fines, correctional labor, or imprisonment for up to 2 years. If the act is committed by a group, repeatedly, or causes significant damage, the sentence increases to up to 5 years in prison. The Law on Information Security also applies. It is important to note that "ethical hacking" (Pentesting) is permissible only with the prior written consent of the system owner.
Step-by-Step Service Process
The defense process includes:
- Audit: Technical study of case materials.
- Evidence Gathering: Finding alternative digital traces.
- Court Defense: "Translating" technical terms (IP, MAC, SQL Injection) into language understandable for the court.
Why Choose a Specialist on Legal.ge?
Cybercrime cases are unique. Traditional lawyers often lack the necessary technical competence. On Legal.ge, you will find lawyers specializing in IT law who can protect your freedom in the digital age.
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