Lance B. Sigmon, Civilian Defense Counsel - Military Lawyer for the United States Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines

Servicemembers should be wary of using any file downloading or file sharing services during or outside of the scope of their duty. File sharing services such as BitTorrent, Limewire, Bearshare, DC++ not only foster the transfer of illegally pirated music and movies, but they also serve as underground networks for child pornography. Unwitting servicemembers can easily find themselves charged for possessing or transmitting child pornography through these programs without their knowledge or consent. Legal and moderated methods of acquiring movies and music, such as iTunes and Amazon.com, are a much safer solution.

Servicemembers should also be wary of letting friends, acquaintances, or coworkers use their personal computers. Because it is difficult, if not impossible, to prove who uses a computer at any given time, what a friend or coworker does on a computer is typically blamed on the computer’s owner. Many military members have been prosecuted for material found on their personal computers that they were entirely unaware of. If other people regularly use your computer, the best method to protect yourself is to let them use the “Guest” user account or to set up a separate user account for them. Additionally, use a password to lock your computer whenever you leave it in a public location, or physically take the computer with you if feasible.

If you are suspected of a technology-related offense, call Mr. Sigmon immediately. Having tried these types of cases in the past and having worked on precedent-setting military appeals, Mr. Sigmon has developed significant expertise in representing military members in all manner of technology-related criminal trials. Through the use of computer experts and aggressive representation, Mr. Sigmon will protect your rights and your future. Call him now!