Florida § 934.21 - Unlawful access to stored communications; penalties.

Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 934.21 — Unlawful access to stored communications; penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 934.21. Unlawful access to stored communications; penalties.

(1) Except as provided in subsection (3), whoever: (a) Intentionally accesses without authorization a facility through which an electronic communication service is provided, or (b) Intentionally exceeds an authorization to access such facility, and thereby obtains, alters, or prevents authorized access to a wire or electronic communication while it is in electronic storage in such system shall be punished as provided in subsection (2). (2) The punishment for an offense under subsection (1) is as follows: (a) If the offense is committed for purposes of commercial advantage, malicious destruction or damage, or private commercial gain, the person is: 1. In the case of a first offense under this subsection, guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 934.41. 2. In the case of any subsequent offense under this subsection, guilty of a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, s. 775.084, or s. 934.41. (b) In any other case, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. (3) Subsection (1) does not apply with respect to conduct authorized: (a) By the person or entity providing a wire or electronic communications service; (b) By a user of a wire or electronic communications service with respect to a communication of or intended for that user; or (c) In s. 934.09, s. 934.23, or s. 934.24.

Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 934.21

What does Florida Statutes § 934.21 cover?

Section 934.21 ("Unlawful access to stored communications; penalties.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Florida § 934.21?

A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 934.21" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Florida law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.

How does Florida § 934.21 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.