Online offenses in Texas cover a wide range of actions, from identity theft to cyberstalking. Texas takes internet crimes seriously, and many of these offenses can lead to steep fines, jail time, or long-term consequences on someone’s record. The digital world makes it easy to connect, shop, work, and learn.
But it also opens the door to crimes that happen behind a screen. Because of this, many people find themselves confused about what is considered illegal online. The Houston Police Department investigates criminal activity carried out through the use of technology and the internet.
Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S and a diverse metropolitan area in Texas. The city is well-known as a diverse hub for energy, aerospace, and engineering, with a young population and a small-town feel. When someone is accused of a cyber offense in a big metropolitan area like Houston, having experienced defense against internet crimes in Houston can be vital.
A single accusation can grow into a larger investigation, and laws in this area move fast. Below are some of the most common types of online offenses that can lead to criminal charges in Texas.
1. Unauthorized Access and Hacking
Unauthorized access involves breaking into someone else’s computer, phone, or network without permission. The law does not require a person to steal something for this to be a crime. Simply accessing a protected system can lead to charges. Penalties increase if the act results in stolen data, financial loss, or disruption of normal operations.
2. Cyberstalking (Threatening, Harassing, or Repeatedly Contacting)
In Texas, sending threatening, harassing, or repeated electronic communications intended to alarm, annoy, or torment someone can result in criminal charges under Penal Code Section 42.07 (Harassment). These crimes involve sending threats, posting damaging content about someone, monitoring someone’s online activities, or other similar behavior. Both minors and adults may be prosecuted for this type of behavior, and Texas prosecutors are very serious about this type of offense.
3. Identity Theft and Internet Fraud
Internet identity theft occurs when an individual uses someone else’s personal information to open new accounts, make purchases, or obtain access to their financial information.
The FTC reports that Texas has one of the highest numbers of complaints regarding identity theft. Using someone else’s login credentials (for example) is also considered a form of fraud based on intent.
4. Soliciting Minors Online and Other Forms of Online Exploitation
Texas has specific laws regarding soliciting minors online. Attempting to solicit a minor for sex by sexually communicating with them, meeting them to commit a crime against them, or engaging in other forms of exploitation of a minor is a felony offense. Law enforcement agencies frequently conduct undercover investigations to find those committing these crimes.
5. Financial/E-Commerce Fraud
This area of the law includes various types of online schemes, including phishing, online stores selling false products, credit card fraud, and auction scams. All attempts to defraud people financially using the internet can result in state or federal charges.
Key Takeaways
- Texas charges several types of online crimes, ranging from hacking to harassment.
- Minor behaviors can turn into major problems because of unclear intentions.
- Many of the most common crimes committed on the internet relate to identity theft and financial fraud.
Penalties for online crimes can include hefty fines, imprisonment, and long-lasting adverse effects on your permanent record.
Oliver Johnson is LawScroller’s Senior Legal Correspondent specializing in civil litigation, class actions, and consumer lawsuit coverage. He breaks down complex settlements and court decisions into clear, practical guidance for readers.