USA Today Features Op-Ed Advocating for Victims of Cyber Assault in High-Profile Matthew Weiss Case and Broader Changes in Online Privacy Laws
Sommers Schwartz’s Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller and Megan Bonanni of Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers are collaborating in a groundbreaking legal battle that highlights the urgent need for stronger protections against identity theft and data breaches. Their joint efforts gained national attention following a compelling USA Today opinion piece that addressed the alarming rise of sexual violence facilitated by technology.
The article discusses the case against Matthew Weiss, a former University of Michigan football coach accused of multiple counts of aggravated identity theft and unauthorized access. Through their representation of plaintiffs affected by Weiss’s alleged misconduct, Lisa and Megan underscore the devastating consequences of compromised personal information. The duo seeks not only justice for their clients but also a broader societal recognition of the risks associated with digital vulnerabilities.
Lisa’s extensive experience in advocating for victims of cyber sexual abuse complements Megan’s dedication to issues of institutional accountability and sexual assault. Together, they’ve forged a formidable alliance to address the intersection of technology, personal privacy, and dignity.
As the two lawyers stressed in the op-ed piece, this case is not just a garden variety data breach, but also a form of cyber sexual assault perpetrated by Weiss’s theft of their clients’ intimate photos and videos. Victims often face emotional distress and a loss of autonomy that can linger long after the initial incident. Lisa and Megan emphasize that their fight is about seeking compensation and about reclaiming the narrative forcibly taken from their clients and demanding institutional accountability and change.
As part of their advocacy, the attorneys are calling for reevaluating existing laws, including the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and the Stored Communications Act, to better equip the legal system to handle the complexities of modern cyber offenses. They argue that a proactive approach is necessary to protect individuals from the increasing threat of identity theft and online exploitation.
With ongoing legal proceedings against Weiss and the pressing need for reform in data security practices, Lisa and Megan are committed to amplifying the voices of victims. Their work champions individual rights and strives to inspire a collective movement toward enhanced protections in the digital landscape. Their partnership serves as a critical reminder of the importance of accountability and vigilance in an era where technology often outpaces the law.
