Wire fraud is one of the most commonly charged white-collar crimes and involves using electronic communications to carry out a fraudulent scheme. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, wire fraud occurs when someone:

• Intentionally devises a scheme to defraud another party
• Uses interstate electronic communications (phone, email, text messages, social media, or online transactions) to further the fraud
• Engages in false pretenses, deception, or misrepresentation for financial gain

Examples of Wire Fraud:

• Sending fraudulent emails to obtain money or sensitive information (phishing scams)
• Using fake online transactions to steal funds
• Telemarketing fraud schemes involving false promises
• Deceiving investors through online securities fraud

Penalties for wire fraud include up to 20 years in federal prison and substantial fines. If the fraud involves a financial institution or a federal disaster relief program, penalties can increase to 30 years in prison.

Mail fraud is similar to wire fraud but involves the use of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) or private mail carriers (FedEx, UPS) to commit fraud.

To convict someone of mail fraud, the government must prove:

• A scheme to defraud another party
• The use of mail services to execute or further the fraud
• Intent to deceive or misrepresent for financial gain

Examples of Mail Fraud:

• Mailing fraudulent contracts, invoices, or solicitations
• Sending false claims for insurance, government benefits, or investments
• Lottery, sweepstakes, or charity fraud schemes using the mail

Like wire fraud, mail fraud carries penalties of up to 20 years in prison. If the fraud affects a financial institution or government program, penalties can be enhanced to 30 years in prison and millions in fines.