Cybercrime

Cybercrime offences are increasingly prosecuted and carry serious penalties. Investigations are often conducted by specialist units including the National Crime Agency, regional organised crime units, and the Metropolitan Police Cyber Crime Unit. Early legal involvement is critical.

Offences covered

I accept instructions in cybercrime matters including:

  • Unauthorised access to computer material (Section 1 Computer Misuse Act 1990)
  • Unauthorised access with intent to commit further offences (Section 2)
  • Unauthorised acts causing or creating risk of serious damage (Section 3ZA)
  • Making, supplying or obtaining articles for use in computer misuse (Section 3A)
  • Online fraud, phishing, and identity theft
  • Dark web activity and cryptocurrency offences
  • Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks
  • Hacking and data theft

Investigation stage

Cybercrime investigations frequently involve the seizure of devices, analysis of digital evidence, and international cooperation. The period between a search warrant and a charging decision can be lengthy. Instructing a solicitor at the earliest stage — including before any interview under caution — is particularly important in these cases.

Digital evidence

The reliability and interpretation of digital evidence is often central to the defence. I work with specialist digital forensics experts to examine the prosecution evidence and identify weaknesses, alternative explanations, and technical defences.

Frequently asked questions

The Computer Misuse Act 1990 creates offences relating to unauthorised access to computer systems and unauthorised modification of computer material. Penalties range from two years for basic unauthorised access to life imprisonment for the most serious offences causing national security risk.
Devices seized during a cybercrime investigation may be retained for the duration of the investigation and any subsequent proceedings. I can make representations for the early return of devices where this is appropriate.
You should seek legal advice before answering any questions. Anything said in an interview under caution can be used as evidence. Even if you believe the matter is straightforward, speaking to a solicitor before interview is strongly advisable.