According to the National Gang Intelligence Center, crimes committed by gang members are getting increasingly high-tech. Since cyber crimes provide a higher payout with less risk when compared to violent crimes such as robberies, authorities believe gang members are more frequently committing crimes such as identity theft, computer hacking, phishing schemes and check fraud.
In California, several gang members have been arrested for credit card skimming. Skimming generally involves the use of a small electronic device to copy an individual’s credit card numbers when they swipe their card at a store or gas station. The information is then used to make a duplicate card or to sell the credit card numbers on the internet.
Penalties for Credit Card Fraud and Cyber-crimes in California
In California, the penalties for credit card fraud and other cyber-crimes are severe. Not only are individuals charged with the crime itself, which can result in lengthy prison terms, but individuals often are also charged with other crimes such as racketeering, counterfeiting, bank fraud and identity theft.
Prison terms for people convicted of credit card fraud can be substantial. They could result in lengthy sentences of as much as 20 years.
Know Your Rights
Credit card fraud and identity theft are serious charges. If you have been arrested for these crimes, you will need an experienced Riverside or San Bernardino criminal defense attorney at your side.
