Although computers of some form or fashion came about in the 1800s, modern-day computers entered the world in the 1970s. Now, in the 21 st century, having a computer, whether a laptop, PC or cellphone, is a must for many people.

100% of people between the ages of 18 and 29 use the internet. Even those 65 years and older use the internet 73% of the time, and they were born before the invention of the modern-day personal computer. These days, with all the devices used to access the internet, there are innumerable ways to commit computer crimes. Here are three cybercrimes some people may commit unknowingly.

Types of cybercrimes

Digital Millennium Copyright Act

In 1988, Congress enacted this legislation that brought significant changes to the U.S. Copyright Act. The law is an anti-piracy statute, making it illegal for others to circumvent copyrighted work for beneficial gain. For example, uploading music for a reaction video on YouTube is a copyright infringement, and YouTube may send out a DMCA takedown notice. Violations may mean both civil and criminal penalties such as imprisonment and thousands or millions of dollars in statutory damages.

No Electronic Theft Act

The No Electronic Theft (NET) Act is a law passed in 1997. The law protects against copyright infringement, even when there is no profit. The NET Act makes it a federal crime to copy or share copies of music, movies, games, software and other electronic works. The highest penalty for violating the NET Act is three years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Unauthorized Access

Computer piggybacking is the process of establishing a wireless internet connection using another’s service without permission. Although sitting in the café parking lot using its Wi-Fi may seem OK, it is illegal.

New York’s penal code section 156.05 states a person is guilty of unlawful use of a computer when a person knowingly uses a computer, computer service or computer network without permission. The charge is a misdemeanor, which may include a year in jail, three years’ probation and a fine of up to $1,000.