Increasing hacking and private data leak incidents paved the way for encrypted messaging. This security feature enables individuals to communicate privately and send messages without fear of interception by unauthorized parties. Messaging apps with these protections have also become a favored medium for those who wish to distribute illegal content, such as child pornography.
Paying the price
Beyond outraging society, crimes relating to child porn carry weighty legal repercussions that are harsher than most crimes. Despite using encrypted messaging apps to distribute illicit content, the FBI has ways of obtaining data or investigating suspects. Undercover FBI agents can gain access to secret chat groups and catch perpetrators in the act.
Child pornography crimes, including distribution, are grave federal offenses that can lead to prison sentences ranging from 15 to 30 years. Sharing illicit content involving minors may fall under distribution. Content involving violence or the sexual abuse of a minor may aggravate penalties.
Despite these harsh penalties, it is still possible for offenders to secure release from prison after some time. However, people may not be as forgiving.
After a conviction for a child pornography crime, registration as a sex offender is mandatory upon release to society. Since this information is freely accessible to the public, rebuilding life after serving jail time can be very difficult.
Despite the gravity of the situation, individuals can still influence the direction of their case. One pivotal action someone facing child pornography charges can take is to engage a competent attorney experienced in building a solid defense.