Credit Card Fraud

The term “credit card fraud” refers to any type of fraud that involves the dishonest use of credit card details – or fraudulent applications to credit card companies – intending to achieve financial gain.

Below, we’ll explain a little more about different credit card fraud offences and how DPP Law can assist clients facing prosecution for criminal activity of this kind.

Credit Card Fraud Defence Solicitors

Fraud is considered a serious offence, so if you have been accused of credit card fraud, you must get in touch with the experienced credit card fraud solicitors at DPP Law as a matter of urgency.

We can provide you with excellent legal advice and representation to help you through any investigation and to ensure that your defence is as strong as possible if your case is taken to court.

What is Considered Credit Card Fraud?

There are several different types of credit card fraud, from the dishonest use of someone else’s credit or debit card to the “cloning of cards”, the submission of false credit card applications, and conspiracy to defraud.

We’ll explore the most common of these offences below.

Skimming/Cloning

“Skimming” is the illegal practice of hiding devices within card readers – such as ATM machines – in order to steal the legitimate cardholder’s details.

These details may include the numbers printed on the card and also the PIN, with some skimming devices even being fitted with cameras. Usually, the merchant managing the use of the card reader is unaware that a skimming device has been fitted.

“Cloning” involves the use of stolen or “skimmed” information, which is then printed onto a new card and used as if it were the holder’s own – even though the money being spent belongs to the victim of the offence.

Stolen Credit Cards

One of the most simple ways in which offenders commit credit card fraud is simply to steal another individual’s card and use it as one’s own.

Stealing or Selling Credit Card Information

Information such as credit card numbers, security codes, and PINs can be stolen by way of skimming, via the accidental exposure of those details to bystanders, or online via phishing scams and other fraudulent activity.

Not only may a fraudster use the stolen information themselves, but they may also sell deceitfully-obtained card details to others for financial gain.

False Credit Card Applications

Another common type of credit card fraud is the use of a third party’s details to open a credit card account.

Credit card fraud cases of this kind often see the perpetrators racking up significant levels of debt in their victim’s name in order to illegally access funds without having to make repayments.

False Credit Card “Chargebacks”

Some fraudsters will contact their credit card supplier to dispute a valid charge.

After using their card to purchase goods or services, the perpetrator will contact the administrators of their bank account to get the amount refunded – even though those goods or services had been correctly delivered and charged at an accurate price.

What is the Maximum Penalty for Credit Card Fraud?

Under the Fraud Act 2006, individuals found guilty of fraud (including credit card fraud) face a maximum of 10 years’ custodial sentence, as well as a significant fine and the requirement that they repay any fraudulent gains.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been Accused of Credit Card Fraud?

As is clear from the potential sentences that come with a guilty verdict, credit card fraud is considered a serious offence.

For this reason, if you have been accused of a crime of this kind, you must instruct a firm of experienced credit card fraud lawyers – such as DPP Law – immediately.

Our team of experts will be available to help you throughout any investigation. We can accompany you to interviews at a police station, your place of work, or any other location – and we will also assist you in gathering evidence to prove your innocence.

What’s more, DPP Law’s solicitors have a great track record of building the strongest possible credit card fraud defence and providing our clients with excellent representation in court to ensure the best possible outcome.

Alongside this, our solicitors advise individuals on:

• Criminal Defence
• Sexual Offences
• Benefit Fraud Defence
• Serious Driving Offences
• Military Law
• Family Law
• Personal Injury
• Road Traffic Accidents

Credit Card Fraud: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is credit card fraud detected?

A: Credit card fraud is a common problem, which has led to the development of numerous ways in which it may be detected. The vast majority of banks have a series of checks in place, including a range of verification systems, to prevent offences of this kind.

If an unexpected or unusual transaction is encountered by the algorithms that operate across a bank’s digital systems, many will send a notification to the cardholder to ensure that they are aware of the activity.

They may then inform the bank, which will then take steps to mitigate and investigate the occurrence.

Others will require larger amounts to be manually authorised by the owner of the account. If multiple failed attempts at verification occur, the cardholder is notified.

Q: Can you go to jail for credit card fraud?

A: Yes – the current maximum sentence is 10 years in custody, although some cases see perpetrators jailed for 5-6 years or less.

For further details on what to expect if you are being investigated for credit card fraud, and to find out how the specialist solicitors at DPP Law can help you, simply contact us today.

We even have a 24/7 emergency arrest line, so you can get in touch with us to request legal advice any time of the day or night, 365 days a year.