All Laws Decoded

Computer Crime Laws in Nevada

How Nevada law treats computer hacking and cybercrime: what is illegal, whether it is a misdemeanor or felony, and the penalties, from the state code.

Short answer: Knowingly, willfully and without authorization accessing, changing, damaging or destroying data or programs, or introducing a computer contaminant (such as a virus, worm or Trojan horse), is a misdemeanor; NRS 205.4737, 205.4765, 205.477

Computer hacking and cybercrimeKnowingly, willfully and without authorization accessing, changing, damaging or destroying data or programs, or introducing a computer contaminant (such as a virus, worm or Trojan horse), is a misdemeanor; interfering with or denying access to a computer or network, or unauthorized use of a computer system or information service, is a gross misdemeanor. Either becomes a category C felony (1 to 5 years and a fine of up to $100,000, plus restitution) if done to defraud or obtain property, if it causes response costs, loss or damage over $500, or if it interrupts a public service.
Ransomware is not named in these sections. C 1-5 years and up to $10,000; D 1-4 years and up to $5,000; E 1-4 years and up to $5,000 with probation generally required; gross misdemeanor up to 364 days and $2,000; misdemeanor up to 6 months and $1,000.

More Nevada criminal law

FAQ

Is hacking a crime in Nevada?
Knowingly, willfully and without authorization accessing, changing, damaging or destroying data or programs, or introducing a computer contaminant (such as a virus, worm or Trojan horse), is a misdemeanor; interfering with or denying access to a computer or network, or unauthorized use of a computer system or information service, is a gross misdemeanor. Either becomes a category C felony (1 to 5 years and a fine of up to $100,000, plus restitution) if done to defraud or obtain property, if it causes response costs, loss or damage over $500, or if it interrupts a public service.
Can I get a court-appointed lawyer for computer hacking and cybercrime in Nevada?
Nevada's rule on court-appointed lawyers: A defendant charged with a public offense who is unable to employ counsel makes an oral request to the district judge, justice of the peace, municipal judge or master; the request 'must be accompanied by the defendant's affidavit' stating that the defendant lacks means to employ an attorney and setting out specific facts about the financial disability. The judge or master must forthwith consider the application, may make further inquiry, and if satisfied that the defendant lacks means and that representation is required, appoints counsel. The section sets no numeric income cutoff and no fee to the defendant. NRS 171.188
How much does a lawyer for computer hacking and cybercrime cost in Nevada?
Lawyers set their own fees, and Nevada has rules on how they may charge. See hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Nevada for fee rules, how to check a lawyer's license and free help.
What happens after an arrest for computer hacking and cybercrime in Nevada?
How release before trial works in Nevada: 'A person arrested for an offense other than murder of the first degree must be admitted to bail' (NRS 178.484(1)); a person arrested for first-degree murder may be admitted to bail unless the proof is evident or the presumption great (NRS 178.484(4)). The court must hold a pretrial release determination 'within 48 hours after a person has been taken into custody' (NRS 178.4849). Bail or release conditions may be imposed only as 'the least restrictive means necessary to protect the safety of the community', with findings explaining why (NRS 178.4851). In setting bail, the court must consider 'The financial ability of the defendant to give bail,' the nature of the offense, the defendant's character, and the NRS 178.4853 factors (NRS 178.498), which include length of residence in the community, employment history, prior criminal record, and danger to the victim or community. Certain arrests (for example, some domestic battery offenses) may not be admitted to bail sooner than 12 hours after arrest. NRS 178.484, 178.4849, 178.4851, 178.4853, 178.498 What happens after an arrest.
Can a conviction for computer hacking and cybercrime be removed from my record in Nevada?
Each state sets its own rules for sealing or expunging records. See Nevada expungement and record sealing rules.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.