Identity Theft Crimes
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Identity Theft Criminal Defense Lawyer
Identity theft is a crime that is increasingly common in today’s internet and computer-based society. In the 12-month period from mid 2005 to mid 2006, an estimated amount of 15 million Americans were the victim of some form of identity theft. The estimated value of identity fraud was estimated at $56.6 billion in 2006. Due to the increased attention to identity theft, sentencing can be severe, ranging from 2-20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
The four main types of identity theft are:
- Financial: the illegal use of another’s identity to attain goods or services, such as loans, credit cards, etc. The offender may file for a change of address directly after applying for a loan or credit card to keep the victim from knowing their identity has been compromised.
- Criminal: the use of another’s identity (by using a fake state-issued ID card or similar form of identification) during an arrest in order to place the crime on the record of the victim rather than the criminal. This can result in a bench warrant under the innocent victim’s name, causing false imprisonment and an inaccurate criminal record.
- Identity cloning: the use of another’s identity in day-to-day affairs, usually to avoid law enforcement or creditors.
- Business/Commercial identity theft: the illegal use of another’s business name and information in order to attain credit or loans.
An individual’s or business’s identity can be attained by stealing mail, rummaging through trash, hacking, phishing, pick pocketing, or even eavesdropping.
A Felony Offense
Identity theft is a felony offense and can be punishable, depending upon the specific case, with up to 20 years in prison.
If you are a resident of southern California who has been accused of identity theft, it is imperative that you contact the Law Offices of Barry Bernstein immediately so Mr. Bernstein and his staff can start building a defense to protect your rights and keep you out of jail.
Contact us regarding your identity theft case!
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