§ 569.095 RSMo – Tampering with Computer Data in Missouri

Posted by Christopher Combs on July 22, 2025

569.095. Tampering with computer data — penalties.

In Missouri, you can be charged with a crime if you mess with computer data without permission, even if you don’t physically damage the computer itself.

1. You commit this offense if you knowingly and without proper authorization do any of the following:

(1) Change or delete files or software inside a computer or network;
(2) Change or delete files or software stored outside the system (like backups);
(3) Take or share any files, software, or documentation from a computer or network;
(4) Share or steal passwords or confidential access info;
(5) Look at someone else’s information on a computer or network without permission;
(6) Use, keep, or share any data you know was obtained illegally.

2. This is usually a class A misdemeanor, but becomes a class E felony if it’s done to scam someone or steal property worth $750 or more.