Credit Card Theft / Fraud

Credit card theft and fraudulent use has quickly become one of the most widespread crimes across the United States . One of the highest victim rates are among college-age students because of the ease at which criminals can obtain or steal their credit cards or numbers.

To guard against becoming a victim, adhere to the following:

• Do not carry more than one credit card with you at any times.
• Do not give out your card numbers or allow others to use them.
• Keep credit cards/numbers in a safe place.
• Store and carry your credit cards separate from your identification card or drivers license.
• Be especially vigilant during high-crime times such as holidays and events with a lot of spending.

If you become a victim of this crime, do the following:

• REPORT the crime and file a police report immediately.
• Contact the credit companies and have the card canceled as soon as possible.
• Provide any information to the police about the fraudulent use of the card.
• Check your credit report at least twice a year for other fraudulent uses.

According to the Code of Virginia, the following is the definition of the criminal violation of credit card theft/fraud:

§18.2-192 If any person takes, obtains or possesses a credit card number or card

§18.2-195 without the knowledge of the cardholder, he or she shall be guilty of a felony punishable by and up to 1-5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2500. If a person intends to defraud another of the card or card number with intent to obtain money, goods or services, he or she shall be guilty of a Class 1 Misdemeanor (under $200 obtained) or a Class 6 Felony (over $200 obtained).