Skilled Legal Defense Against Credit Card Fraud Charges
Credit card fraud involves stealing someone else’s information to obtain something of monetary value. Colorado law outlines several offenses in the credit card fraud category. In Colorado, the unauthorized use of a credit card is a criminal offense. If you have been charged with a credit card fraud offense, it is in your best interests to speak with an experienced Denver criminal defense lawyer.
What Are the Penalties for Credit Card Fraud in Colorado?
Penalties upon conviction of credit card fraud will depend on the specific charges and the value of what was lost. Penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the crime. You could be facing prison time and steep fines without a proper defense. It is critical that you hire a criminal defense lawyer with experience in handling credit card fraud offenses.
What Are Some Examples of Credit Card Fraud?
With technology in the 21st Century, credit card fraud can occur in a variety of ways. It can be committed in person, over the phone, by text, or online. Common types of credit card fraud include the following:
- Card not present (CNP): A cardholder’s personal and credit card information are stolen and used to make purchases online or over the phone. There is no physical card to examine, and merchants cannot verify the identity of the buyer.
- Account takeover: This involves stealing someone’s personal information, then contacting a credit card company, pretending to be the account holder, changing the password and PIN numbers, and taking over the account.
- Credit card skimming: Devices called skimmers are attached to machines in ATMs, retail stores, gas stations, etc. and used to steal credit card information from the magnetic strip on the back of the card. The information is then sold to other scammers or used to make charges on the card.
- Using lost or stolen credit cards: Thieves intercept credit cards in the mail to cardholders, steal cards in other ways, or use a card someone has lost.
Why Should You Meet with a Denver Criminal Defense Attorney If You Have Been Charged With Credit Card Fraud?
If you are facing charges of credit card fraud in Colorado, you need strong legal defense against the charges. Depending on the specific offense and the amount of credit involved, conviction could mean jail time and heavy fines. The consequences could have a negative impact on your future.
An experienced Denver criminal defense attorney at Welsh Law L.L.C. can explain your rights and break down your options in a free consultation. Our experienced legal team can use our knowledge and skills to build a strong defense against your charges. You have the right to an attorney. Call us today at (720) 836-1777.