New Jersey § 2c:20-25
Full text of New Jersey New Jersey Statutes § 2c:20-25, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2c:20-25.
A person is guilty of computer criminal activity if the person purposely or knowingly and without authorization , or in excess of authorization : a. Accesses any data, data base, computer storage medium, computer program, computer software , computer equipment , computer, computer system or computer network; b. Alters, damages or destroys any data, data base, computer, computer storage medium, computer program, computer software, computer system or computer network, or denies, disrupts or impairs computer services, including access to any part of
the Internet, that are available to any other user of the computer services ; c. Accesses or attempts to access any data, data base, computer, computer storage medium, computer program, computer software, computer equipment, computer system or computer network for the purpose of executing a scheme to defraud,
or to obtain services, property, personal identifying information, or money, from the owner of a computer or any third party; d. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2003, c.39 ) . e. Obtains, takes, copies or uses any data, data base, computer program, computer
software, personal identifying information, or other information stored in a computer,
computer network, computer system, computer equipment or computer storage medium;
or f. Accesses and recklessly alters, damages or destroys any data, data base, computer,
computer storage medium, computer program, computer software, computer equipment,
computer system or computer network. g. A violation of subsection a. of this section is a crime of the third degree. A violation of subsection b. is a crime of the second degree. A violation of subsection c. is a crime of the third degree, except that it is a
crime of the second degree if the value of the services, property, personal identifying
information, or money obtained or sought to be obtained exceeds $ 5,000. A violation of subsection e. is a crime of the third degree, except that it is a
crime of the second degree if the data, data base, computer program, computer software,
or information: (1) is or contains personal identifying information, medical diagnoses, treatments
or other medical information concerning an identifiable person; (2) is or contains governmental records or other information that is protected from
disclosure by law, court order or rule of court; or (3) has a value exceeding $5,000. A violation of subsection f. is a crime of the fourth degree, except that it is a
crime of the third degree if the value of the damage exceeds $5,000. A violation of any subsection of this section is a crime of the first degree if the
offense results in: (1) a substantial interruption or impairment of public communication, transportation,
supply of water, gas or power, or other public service. The term “ substantial interruption or impairment ” shall mean such interruption or impairment that: (a) affects 10 or more structures or habitations; (b) lasts for two or more hours; or (c) creates a risk of death or significant bodily injury to any person; (2) damages or loss in excess of $250,000; or (3) significant bodily injury to any person. Every sentence of imprisonment for a crime of the first degree committed in violation
of this section shall include a minimum term of one-third to one-half of the sentence
imposed, during which term the defendant shall not be eligible for parole. h. Every sentence imposed upon a conviction pursuant to this section shall, if the
victim is a government agency, include a period of imprisonment. The period of imprisonment shall include a minimum term of one-third to one-half
of the sentence imposed, during which term the defendant shall not be eligible for
parole. The victim shall be deemed to be a government agency if a computer, computer network,
computer storage medium, computer system, computer equipment, computer program, computer
software, computer data or data base that is a subject of the crime is owned, operated
or maintained by or on behalf of a governmental agency or unit of State or local government
or a public authority. The defendant shall be strictly liable under this subsection and it shall not be
a defense that the defendant did not know or intend that the victim was a government
agency, or that the defendant intended that there be other victims of the crime. A violation of any subsection of this section shall be a distinct offense from a violation
of any other subsection of this section, and a conviction for a violation of any subsection
of this section shall not merge with a conviction for a violation of any other subsection
of this section or section 10 of P.L.1984, c. 184 ( C.2C:20-31 ), or for conspiring or attempting to violate any subsection of this section or section
10 of P.L.1984, c. 184 ( C.2C:20-31 ), and a separate sentence shall be imposed for each such conviction. When a violation of any subsection of this section involves an offense committed against
a person under 18 years of age, the violation shall constitute an aggravating circumstance
to be considered by the court when determining the appropriate sentence to be imposed.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey § 2c:20-25
What does New Jersey Statutes § 2c:20-25 cover?
Section 2c:20-25 is part of the New Jersey Statutes, the codified statutory law of New Jersey. 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 New Jersey § 2c:20-25?
A common citation format is "New Jersey Statutes § 2c:20-25" (New Jersey). 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 New Jersey law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Jersey official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Jersey attorney.
How does New Jersey § 2c:20-25 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Jersey 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 New Jersey.