Quote:
The growth of e-commerce has also lead to a growth of internet fraud. Credit card fraud is rampant on the internet and with more sophisticated and persistent detective work prosecutions are increasing. Large and small businesses and individuals are targeted by investigators under federal and state laws. We work with investigators including US postal inspectors to avoid indictment.
The U.S. Secret Service estimates that half a billion dollars are obtained each year by operators who obtain credit card and calling card numbers from on-line databases. Additionally smaller scale operations from adult web site long distance scams to straightforward "take the money and run" shops are on the increase. We are familiar with these cases and have handled allegations of fraud for as little as $2500 to hundreds of thousands.
These cases may be brought under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (18 U.S.C. Sec 1030) or as Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud cases. Federal law prohibits the use of the U.S. mail or private carriers in a scheme to defraud or obtain money, property, or services by fraudulent means. Wire fraud involves acts of fraud that relate to using wire, radio, or television in a scheme to defraud or obtain property by fraudulent means. The punishment for a violation of these laws is up to five years in prison and a fine. However, if the mail fraud affects a financial institution, the punishment is up to thirty years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Quote:
However, if the mail fraud affects a financial institution, the punishment is up to thirty years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Hmmm.. Is that worth it?