What are the laws regarding online fraud or identity theft?

Online fraud and identity theft are crimes punishable under California law. Fraud is when someone uses deception, typically for financial gain. Identity theft is when someone attempts to use another person’s personal information for their own benefit. Under California Penal Code § 530.5, online fraud is punished as a form of theft. Depending on the amount of economic damage and the age of the victim, fraud can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. In addition, impersonating someone online (without their permission) is considered identity theft and is punishable under California Penal Code § 530.5(a). If personal information was obtained illegally, California Penal Code § 502 makes it illegal to use that information for any malicious use. This includes using another person’s personal information to make purchases or to change banking/financial information. California also has laws that punishes cyberstalking, which is when a person harasses or threatens another person online. Under California Penal Code §646.9, this is considered a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the offense. Overall, California has strict laws in place to protect victims of online fraud or identity theft. If you have been a victim of either, you should contact the police immediately to report the incident.

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What are the laws regarding online fraud or identity theft?

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