Pretty sure a misdemeanor is an American specific thing. I know I have never heard about it other than from Americans.

I know what you mean, not saying its right but that is how it apparently works here. Law often struggles when you go down what if scenarios with technology.

Technically I am not allowed to cut back some nettles on a path because I don’t have the land owners permission. In reality no one gives a shit and people may appreciate not getting stung when walking down the path.

Realistically if its private no one will know about it anyway. IIRC the UK goes with private is also illegal and the realistic reason for that is so that if its leaked and you have it they don’t need to prove that it was you who leaked it and “i was hacked though!” isn’t a valid defence.