10 Shockingly Illegal Things

Every day, people unknowingly engage in activities that could land them in legal trouble. From using a fake name online to sitting on the sidewalk, these seemingly harmless actions are surprisingly illegal. Read on to discover what everyday activities might make you a lawbreaker.

1. Using a Fake Name Online

Creating a fake online persona might seem like a harmless way to protect your privacy, but it’s actually illegal under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. This law prohibits unauthorized access to computers, which can include violating a website’s terms of service. Good to keep in mind when thinking about using that pseudonym.

2. Swearing at Sports Events in Massachusetts

If you’re over 16 in Massachusetts, swearing at players or officials during a sporting event can land you a $50 fine. So, by the end of a Red Sox^® game, it seems like 37,000 people are running up quite the tab.

3. Spitting

Believe it or not, spitting in public places is illegal in several states and cities across the United States. This law aims to prevent the spread of disease and maintain public cleanliness. So, if you need to spit, make sure you do it in a trash can or designated area.

4. Ignoring Your eBay^® Earnings on Tax Returns

Selling items on eBay might seem like an informal way to make some extra cash, but if you do it regularly and for profit, you’re required to report those earnings to the IRS. Treating it as a hobby doesn’t exempt you from paying taxes on your earnings.

5. Public Intoxication

Drinking in public might seem harmless, especially if you’re not driving, but public intoxication is a misdemeanor in many states. Laws vary, but in Texas, for example, you could face a fine up to $500 just for appearing drunk in public.

6. Sitting on the Sidewalk

In some cities, sitting on the sidewalk while waiting for a bus or a friend can land you in legal trouble. Over half of American cities have laws against sitting or lying down in public spaces, aimed at containing urban homelessness and maintaining public order.

7. Downloading Music From Unauthorized Sources

Despite the prevalence of music streaming services, downloading music from unauthorized sources remains illegal. Copyright laws protect artists’ work, and downloading music without paying for it violates these laws, potentially resulting in hefty fines.

8. Playing Poker for Money

Hosting a friendly poker game at home is fine until money gets involved. Under the Illegal Gambling Business Act, poker games that generate more than $2,000 in revenue are illegal. So, unless you’re playing for fun, you might be breaking the law.

9. Sharing Your Password

Sharing your streaming service passwords with friends and family might seem generous, but it’s actually against the law. The U.S. Computer Fraud and Abuse Act prohibits unauthorized access to digital content, which includes sharing your Netflix^® or Hulu^® login details.

10. Jaywalking

Crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks can result in fines, especially in major cities like New York and Los Angeles. Jaywalking laws are enforced to ensure pedestrian safety, so always use the crosswalks to avoid penalties.

These laws might seem trivial or outdated, but they are still enforced and can lead to fines or other legal consequences. Knowing about these everyday illegal activities can help you stay on the right side of the law.

References: 12 Everyday Things You Didn’t Know Were Illegal | 45 Weird Laws Still on the Books