Is identity theft a felony?

Yes, identity theft is a felony in California. Identity theft is defined as using another persons personal information, such as name, Social Security number or bank account number, without their permission. Identity theft is a crime that violates federal, state and local laws. In California, it is classified under Penal Code 530.5. Penal Code 530.5 states that any person who knowingly uses another’s personal information with the intent to defraud or commit any form of fraud is guilty of a felony offense. This means that if someone is found guilty of identity theft, they may face heavy fines and prison terms in the state of California. Additionally, the California Penal Code also provides for additional criminal penalties for identity theft, such as forgery, burglary, counterfeiting and forgery of documents. Overall, identity theft is a felony in California and is taken seriously. The penalty for a conviction of identity theft can range from jail time to severe fines, depending on the severity of the crime and the amount of money involved. It is important to remember to protect yourself and your information in order to prevent identity theft.

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