What exactly leads to charges of wire fraud?

On Behalf of | Nov 11, 2021 | Criminal Defense |

When people think of wire fraud, they often think of phishing scams or phone call schemes. However, picking up the phone is not the only way someone could end up facing charges.

The definition of wire fraud covers much more ground than that nowadays. So, what does it encompass?

Many things could qualify as wire fraud

Wire fraud must involve obtaining payments or someone else’s financial information through deceptive, digital means. That fact does not change. However, what does change is the means of communication or wiring.

Charges of wire fraud could stem from any fraudulent actions or transactions that take place over:

  • Email
  • Phone calls
  • Text messaging
  • Social media messages

In the increasingly digital world that we live in today, the wide range of situations and actions wire fraud could involve poses a serious risk.

Note: Intent is still necessary

Of course, operating on these platforms is not the only risk of facing wire fraud. There are many other factors that prosecutors must prove to charge and convict someone of wire fraud charges. Particularly, they must prove that someone had the intent to commit fraud.

Even so, being aware of the variety of actions and details that could lead to charges is critical.

What are the other risks?

Allegations of wire fraud could lead to other risks as well. There are two specific issues that individuals should be aware of in these cases:

  1. Wire fraud is a federal crime since wiring money often crosses state lines. Therefore, individuals could face both state and federal charges.
  2. Charges of wire fraud can often involve other charges as well, such as internet fraud, which could compound the charges and consequences individuals face.

These are already very serious charges that should not be taken lightly. That is why it is critical to be aware of all of the risks involved. That way, you can protect yourself against them.

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