Credit card fraud is a serious problem throughout the United States. Anyone can fall victim to this type of fraud, especially with today’s use of online banking and e-commerce. If you are arrested for credit card fraud you can face either misdemeanor or felony charges. Each charge can be accompanied by a slew of harsh penalties. If you are facing charges related to credit card theft or fraud you need skilled representation. Speak with a York County, PA theft crime attorney today to discuss the details of your case and begin building your defense.
What is Credit Card Fraud?
Any fraudulent activity related to the use of credit or debit cards can be considered fraud. In Pennsylvania, a person can be found guilty of committing credit card fraud if they are caught:
- Using a credit card to obtain or attempt to obtain goods or services knowing that the card is counterfeit, altered, revoked, canceled, or does not belong to you.
- Making, selling, or transferring a credit card knowing that it is counterfeit, altered, revoked, canceled, or belongs to someone else who hasn’t authorized its use.
- Possessing a credit card that has been counterfeited, altered, or does not belong to you.
Will I Go to Jail for Credit Card Fraud in Pennsylvania?
Credit card fraud is a serious crime in Pennsylvania. The penalties that you incur from a fraud conviction will vary depending on what type of fraud you committed and the monetary value of the property, goods, or services obtained. The following is generally true when facing credit card fraud convictions.
For the crime of using a credit card to obtain or attempt to obtain goods or services knowing that the card is counterfeit, altered, revoked, canceled, or does not belong to you:
- If the value was less than $50, it is considered a second-degree misdemeanor and punishable by up to 2 years of imprisonment.
- If the value was more than $50 but less than $500, it is considered a first-degree misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment.
- If the value was more than $500, it is considered a third-degree felony and is punishable by up to 7 years of imprisonment.
For the crime of making, selling, or transferring a credit card knowing that it is counterfeit, altered, revoked, canceled, or belongs to someone else who hasn’t authorized its use:
- It is considered a third-degree felony and is punishable by up to 7 years of imprisonment.
For the crime of possessing a credit card that has been counterfeited, altered, or does not belong to you:
- It is considered a third-degree misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 1 year of imprisonment.
It is important to note that the amount of credit cards you possess will have a bearing on your sentencing. Each individual card will be considered a separate offense.
