Credit Card Fraud in Florida: Cloning, Identity Theft and Hiring a Defense Lawyer

Credit Card Fraud in Florida: Cloning, Identity Theft and Hiring a Defense Lawyer

Credit card fraud is a big problem here in Florida. Lots of folks are getting their cards cloned or identities stolen. It’s scary! This article will break down the common types of credit card fraud, what to do if you’re a victim, and how a defense lawyer can help if you’re wrongly accused.

Cloning

Cloning is when someone makes an illegal copy of your credit card by stealing the data from the magnetic stripe. They can do this by using a skimming device at an ATM, gas station, or store. Then they make a fake plastic card with your stolen data and go on a shopping spree. Not cool!

If this happens to you, call your credit card company right away to report the fraud and cancel your card. Check your statement closely for any bogus charges – the sooner you catch it, the better. File a police report too. And check your credit report to make sure no new accounts were opened in your name. Here’s a helpful article from the FTC on how to protect yourself from skimmers.

Identity Theft

This is when someone steals your personal information like your Social Security number to open new credit cards or loans in your name. They can get your info by stealing wallets and purses, hacking your email, or combing through your trash. It’s a nightmare!

If you suspect identity theft, take action right away:

• Place a fraud alert and get your credit reports from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Look for any accounts or charges you don’t recognize.
• File a complaint with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov. They have a recovery plan tool that’s really helpful.
• Let your bank and creditors know. Close any fraudulent accounts.
• Change all passwords and security questions/answers.
• File a police report.

Here’s a great article from the FTC on recovering from identity theft. It takes time but you can get through this!

Hiring a Defense Lawyer if Accused

Sometimes people are wrongly accused of credit card fraud or identity theft. This can happen if someone clones your card and uses it, then you get blamed! Or if you’re the victim of identity theft but the police think you did it. This is why it’s critical to hire a defense lawyer right away if you’ve been accused.

A skilled defense attorney will investigate the charges and build a strong case on your behalf. They know how to request evidence like security footage, receipts, computer records, etc. that can prove your innocence. An attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal of the case.

If your case does go to trial, a defense lawyer will aggressively defend you in court. They will examine weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and present witnesses and evidence that show you did not commit fraud. And they can argue motions to get evidence thrown out if it was obtained illegally.

Some top defense attorneys in Florida for credit card fraud and identity theft cases are:

• Smith & Eulo Law Firm – St. Petersburg
• Deckard Law – Stuart
• Figueroa-Contreras Law Group – Miami
• Escobar, Michaels & Associates – Tampa

The sooner you hire a lawyer, the better. Look for someone experienced with financial crime cases. Many offer free consultations, so you can meet with them first before deciding who to hire. It’s worth investing in the best defense you can afford.

Fighting credit card fraud charges in Florida is tough. But with an aggressive defense lawyer on your side, you have a much better chance of avoiding conviction and clearing your name.