Computer Offences (NSW)

In New South Wales, offences relating to and committed via computer and electronic means are considered exceptionally serious. Computer crimes are sometimes hard to regulate, as current technology allows individuals transmit information and data all over the world in seconds. Information and data comes and leaves jurisdictions with ease. The status of technology, the ease with which data can be disseminated and the damage that can be caused with certain information are some of the reasons computer crimes are regulated so heavily and carries maximum penalties including terms of imprisonment. Legislation in relation to computer crime regulates the possession, modification, access and impairment of data and information held in a computer. The intent of the legislation to promote public safety and privacy.

The following pages outline some of the offences relating to accessing, modifying and possession certain computer data in NSW and sets out what the Police must prove to successfully prosecute you, as well as the maximum penalties for each offence. If you have been charged with a computer crime offence, it is imperative that you seek expert legal advice promptly.

• Possession of data with intent to commit a serious computer offence
• Supplying data with intent
• Unauthorised access of restricted data
• Unauthorised Access Or Modification Of Restricted Data Held In A Computer
• Unauthorised access with intent
• Unauthorised impairment of electronic communication
• Unauthorised modification of data with intent to cause impairment