A person's identity is unique, and it acts like a fingerprint for bank accounts, credit reports, and very important life details. There are times when a person tries to take another individual's identity. Identity theft is defined as a crime that involves one person stealing or using another person's identity or personal information in a way that includes fraud and deception for monetary gain. If you have been accused of identity theft, it is important to have an experienced attorney by your side.
Most Common Forms of Identity Theft in 2020
Phishing. Thanks to today’s technology and people's reliance on computers and social media for communication and bill paying, phishing is quite common. This involves tricking an individual to disclose personal information like his or her social security number, credit card data, and bank account codes. Many times, a person poses as a representative from a trusted company or organization.
Mail Theft. In recent years, mail theft has gotten quite sophisticated. Besides stealing checks for mailboxes, people intercept credit cards and other banking information and make unauthorized charges.
Driver's License Identity Theft. Besides taking someone’s wallet for his or her credit cards, a person may take another’s drivers license. This item contains personal information, and it may be used by another individual as fake identification during traffic stops.
Account Takeover Fraud. Account takeover fraud makes up more than half of all fraud in this country. When a person creates a password online, it is possible to hack into a company's site and steal all sensitive and personal information, especially on websites that are not encrypted properly.
Texas Identity Theft Laws
Texas takes identity theft seriously. Under Penal Code 32.51, anyone who obtains, possesses, uses, or transfers sensitive personal information of another individual without this person's knowledge and intends to harm or cause fraud, he or she is guilty of identity theft. This is considered a jail felony. When a person is convicted, he or she may face prison time and an expensive fine.
Work with The Law Offices of Jed Silverman
Identity theft cases are stressful. Oftentimes, prosecutors try to charge defendants with multiple counts of this crime. It is essential to understand the law and to prepare a case that may end with reduced or diminished charges. At our office, we will help you deal with these kinds of allegations and form a defense that prevents you from spending time behind bars. For help, call our team today at (713) 597-2221.