Credit card fraud is when someone uses your credit card or credit account to make a purchase you didn't authorize. This activity can happen in different ways. For example, if you lose your credit card or have it stolen, it can be used to make purchases or other transactions, either in person or online. And fraudsters can also steal your credit card account number, PIN and security code to make unauthorized transactions, without needing your physical credit card—unlawful transactions like these are known as card-not-present fraud.

Identity theft involves the use of illegally obtained information about you, like your name, birthday, Social Security number, credit card numbers and more, in order to use existing credit accounts or open new ones in your name. When this happens, criminals capture the spending power of your credit while you get stuck with the bill.

In Idaho, credit card fraud and identity theft are considered serious criminal offenses. Under Idaho Statutes, Section 18-3124, it is illegal for anyone to knowingly possess, use, or transfer a credit or debit card or the card number with the intent to defraud. This includes using a card that has been lost, stolen, or obtained without authorization, as well as using card information for card-not-present transactions. Penalties for credit card fraud can include fines, restitution, and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Additionally, identity theft is addressed under Idaho Statutes, Section 18-3126, which makes it a felony to obtain personal identifying information of another person without authorization and with the intent to commit a crime. This can include using someone's personal information to open new credit accounts or make unauthorized transactions. The law also provides for civil remedies, allowing victims to sue for damages. It's important for individuals to report suspected credit card fraud or identity theft to law enforcement and their financial institutions as soon as possible to minimize potential damage and to initiate an investigation.