Credit Card Fraud

Credit card fraud is a white collar crime that has become more prevalent in recent years, particularly since the internet has become one of the most preferred modes for purchases, bill pay, and other financial services. Credit card fraud includes trying to use someone else’s information to open a credit card account, using a person’s existing credit card without their permission, or counterfeiting a card to illegally make purchases. While fraud is a non-violent crime, it is heavily prosecuted because of the high cost that cardholders and creditors suffer every year.

Types of Credit Card Fraud

Offenders may try a number of different tactics to steal from consumers and credit card companies alike. All of the following may be considered credit card fraud under the law:

• Stealing or hacking a computer to gain access to confidential financial information and accounts
• Creating counterfeit credit cards to make purchases on someone else’s account or an account that doesn’t exist
• Using confidential information to open a credit card in someone else’s name
• Using a credit card without the owner’s permission

If you are discovered participating in any of the above activities, you may be criminally charged with credit card fraud. Depending on the amount of goods stolen with the card, an offender may be charged with a misdemeanor or felony. For purchases under $300, the individual is charged with a misdemeanor. For fraud totaling more than $300, the culprit will be charged with a felony.

In either case, if you are convicted you face prison or jail time, heavy fines, and other penalties. If you have been arrested for credit card fraud, consider contacting a criminal defense attorney immediately to help you prepare your defense for court.

Contact Us

Credit card fraud is taken very seriously in Florida and you will likely face an aggressive prosecution in court. Don’t enter the courtroom feeling unprepared. For sound legal advice and assistance with preparing your defense, please contact the experienced Boca Raton fraud defense lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.