With the rise of technology, credit card fraud has expanded far beyond stolen mail or lost cards. Today, account numbers can be obtained without the holder’s consent and used to make unauthorized purchases online—or even to create counterfeit cards for personal use.
While laws vary by state, New York law specifically prohibits the unlawful use of credit and debit cards. For example:
- Section 165.15(1) of the New York Penal Code states that anyone who knowingly uses or attempts to use a stolen credit or debit card to obtain goods or services is guilty of credit card fraud.
- Section 165.17 prohibits unlawful use or display of a credit or debit card when the individual knows the card has been canceled or revoked.
- Additional statutes penalize those who knowingly possess stolen property or benefit from another person’s stolen card, sometimes resulting in grand larceny charges.
Credit card fraud charges can also carry related offenses, such as mail fraud, larceny, forgery, criminal possession of stolen property, or identity theft. Convictions can lead to serious felony charges, fines, and prison time.
Because of the severe consequences, it is critical to consult with an experienced attorney immediately if you are accused of stealing, using, or possessing a credit card without authorization—or if you used a card after it was canceled or revoked.
At
Demidchik Law Firm, our skilled attorneys know how to challenge credit card fraud allegations and provide the strong legal defense you need to protect your future.