A protected computer is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1030 as any computer that is used in interstate or foreign commerce or communication. This includes computers located outside the United States that impact U.S. interstate or foreign commerce or communication. Essentially, if a computer is connected to the internet or used for activities that cross state or national borders, it is considered a protected computer.
The term "protected computer" is commonly used in federal law, particularly in cases involving computer crimes, such as unauthorized access or hacking. It is relevant in various legal areas, including:
Individuals and organizations may need to utilize legal forms related to cybersecurity or data protection, which can be found in resources like US Legal Forms. These templates can help users navigate legal requirements effectively.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A company based in California uses a server located in Canada to process customer transactions. This server is considered a protected computer because it is involved in interstate commerce.
Example 2: A person in New York accesses a website hosted in Europe that sells products to U.S. customers. The computer used to access this site is also classified as a protected computer. (hypothetical example)
The primary statute governing protected computers is:
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Computer | A computer used in interstate or foreign commerce. | Focuses on the commerce aspect. |
| Computer | A device for processing data. | More general; does not include the commerce aspect. |
| Unauthorized Access | Accessing a computer without permission. | Refers to actions taken against protected computers. |
If you believe your computer usage may fall under the definition of a protected computer, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | A computer used in interstate or foreign commerce. |
| Relevant Law | 18 U.S.C. § 1030 |
| Legal Areas | Cybersecurity, Criminal Law, Intellectual Property |
A protected computer is any computer used in interstate or foreign commerce, including those located outside the U.S. that affect U.S. commerce.