18.2-152.14 - Computer as instrument of forgery.

§ 18.2-152.14. Computer as instrument of forgery.

The creation, alteration, or deletion of any computer data contained in anycomputer or computer network, which if done on a tangible document orinstrument would constitute forgery under Article 1 (§ 18.2-168 et seq.) ofChapter 6 of this Title, will also be deemed to be forgery. The absence of atangible writing directly created or altered by the offender shall not be adefense to any crime set forth in Article 1 (§ 18.2-168 et seq.) of Chapter 6of this Title if a creation, alteration, or deletion of computer data wasinvolved in lieu of a tangible document or instrument.

(1984, c. 751; 1985, c. 322.)