Credit card fraud cases have been on the rise in recent years. As a result, the law takes credit card fraud extremely seriously. And the penalties can be quite severe if you are convicted.
Basically, credit card fraud refers to the illegal use of another person’s personal information for purposes of making a transaction without their knowledge and approval. It can also refer to the use of an organization’s credit card to make unauthorized personal purchases.
It is important to understand that credit card fraud is theft. And like any other theft charge, you can fight credit card fraud charges in a number of ways. Here are some of them:
You were actually another victim
It is not uncommon for someone to steal someone else’s identity to commit credit card fraud. When this happens, you might claim identity theft in your defense. All you need to do is prove that you, too, are a victim and that you had nothing to do with the crime in question.
There was a misunderstanding
Sometimes, you may have the authority to use a family member or your employer’s debit or credit card to carry out a transaction. If you innocently used a card believing that you were authorized to do so, then you can claim this as your defense.
You were trapped
Entrapment happens when a scenario is created that encourages you to commit a crime that you would otherwise not commit. If you can prove that someone illegally set you up to use the credit card or the data attached to it, you may argue entrapment during your defense.
You were under duress
It is possible that you can use a credit card or the data attached to it against your will. This can happen if someone is threatening you or a loved one with violence. Think about a hostage situation. If this is what happened, then you may argue coercion during your defense.
Credit card fraud is a serious offense. If you have been accused of committing credit card fraud, it is important that figure out how to defend yourself. Never assume that the case against you is really valid until you’ve fully explored your defense options.