Wire fraud often accompanies other charges involving financial fraud, including security fraud, tax avoidance and money laundering. However, wire fraud on its own is considered a serious federal crime that requires a vigorous defense. Therefore, it’s important to understand what wire fraud is.
There are some key elements that need to be present for a crime to be classified as wire fraud:
— It has to take place over some type of interstate wire communication, including the Internet, fax, phone lines and television.
— The person accused of the crime must have intended to defraud others out of their money.
Two common types of wire fraud include telemarketing fraud and “phishing.” Phishing is the practice of attempting to get people’s personal information via e-mail or over the Internet in order to access their money. The “Nigerian prince” story is a popular phishing scam.
Even people who didn’t create a plan to defraud others can be charged with wire fraud if they participated in some way or if there is any record (via phone or e-mail, for example) of them discussing the plan with someone else.
Whatever, the situation, if you find yourself charged with wire fraud, we can help. Our firm has been successfully defending Floridians in federal court against charges of wire fraud and other types of fraud and white collar crimes for a quarter of a century. We work to get our clients’ charges reduced or dismissed.
It’s important not to wait until you’re arrested to seek legal help. If you find that you’re under investigation, call us or e-mail us to arrange for a free consultation.