Q: My adult son viewed illegal content online but did not download anything. Is there a possibility of legal ramifications?
My son stumbled upon illegal content on the internet. He closed it after he realized what it was but fears he may be charged. He is worried sick and we've only found conflicting information as to whether authorities even bother with cases that do not involve posession. Does he have anything to worry about and, if so, what are his options?
A:
Yes, he could have valid concerns. By "viewing" a picture or video online, you still could be downloading content -- and authorities tracking certain illegal sites could be investigating every IP address that logs onto such file-sharing sites. You just don't know.
I would strongly consider professionally wiping that computer's hard drive. Just "deleting" files or browsing history isn't enough, and forensic investigators can still find evidence of such activity unless you have a computer professional do it.
Best of luck to you.
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