Someone else got into email account, settling outside of court?

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Question

Country: United States of America State: Virginia Hello, There is this girl that I know who entered my email (hotmail)without my authorization. She simply answered my "secret question" and got into my email. She did not destroy nor mess around with any of my information but she did send 1 email to herself. I was wondering if I would be able to file any charges against her and under what laws and statues. I was also wondering how much it would cost me (on average)to take her to court and how long the proceedings would take. Would it be easier just to talk to her and settle this outside of court?

Answer

She could be charged with invasion of privacy, hacking and theft etc.Unless you suffered damages however you are not likely to collect funds in any court.