Kansas Credit and Debit Card Fraud

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed May 30, 2019

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Over time, we've seen an increase in the incidence of credit and debit card fraud as people and businesses grow more and more accustomed to digital payment options. Fortunately, the Sunflower State has statutes which protect consumers from these types of crimes. The following is a summary of Kansas credit and debit card fraud laws.

Kansas Credit and Debit Card Fraud Laws

The following table outlines credit and debit card fraud laws in Kansas.

Code Section

KAN. STAT. ANN. § 21-5828
What is Prohibited?

Intentionally defrauding a person or business in order to obtain money, goods, property or services by doing any of the following:

  • Using a financial card without the cardholder's consent
  • Using a financial card, number, or description of a card which has been revoked or canceled
  • Using a falsified, mutilated, altered or nonexistent financial card or number

A "financial" card is an identification card, plate, instrument, device or number which allows a person to conduct financial transactions.
Penalties

Credit or debit card fraud is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in prison and up to $2,500 in fines to if the money, goods, property, or services obtained within a 7-day period was less than $1,000.

It is a felony punishable by up to 9 months in prison and up to $100,000 in fines if the value was at least $1,000 but less than $25,000. It is a felony punishable by up to 17 months in prison and up to $100,000 in fines if the value was $25,000 or more.

Kansas uses a grid system to determine some prison sentences. The above prison times can vary depending upon a person's prior criminal history and the number and type of prior convictions.

Prevention of Credit and Debit Card Fraud

Helpful tips to prevent credit and debit card fraud:

  • Always store your credit or debit card in a safe place.
  • Do not give out your card number over the phone unless you know, and can verify, the caller.
  • Review your account statements regularly to verify your transactions.
  • Memorize your PIN number.
  • Ensure that no one sees your PIN number when you are entering it.
  • Do not write down your credit or debit card information.
  • Shop only with merchants you know and trust.

Get Legal Help With Kansas Credit and Debit Card Fraud Laws

Whether you've been the victim of fraud or you've been accused of committing fraud, it's critical to understand your rights under the law. The best way to get a handle on your rights, and how to protect them, is by speaking with a legal professional. Consider contacting a Kansas criminal defense attorney near you today to learn more.

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