Wire fraud is a federal crime and is committed when wire technology (generally electronic transmissions by telephone, bank wire, internet, or other wire signal) is used to commit a fraud. 18 U.S. C. §1343. Wire fraud has two elements: (1) the defendant devised or intended to devise a scheme to defraud, or to obtain money or property using fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises; and (2) the defendant used wire technology for the purpose of executing or attempting to execute the scheme or fraudulent acts. It is not necessary that the use of wire technology be an essential part of the fraudulent scheme.

Wire fraud is a felony offense with potential punishments of decades-long prison sentences, financial penalties, restitution obligations, and probation terms.

In Vermont, as in all states, wire fraud is considered a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1343. This statute defines wire fraud as the use of electronic communications technology to carry out a fraudulent scheme with the intent to defraud or obtain money or property under false pretenses. The law does not require that the use of wire technology be essential to the fraud, only that it is used in some way to further the fraudulent scheme. If convicted of wire fraud, the defendant could face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial financial fines, the obligation to pay restitution to victims, and probation. It's important to note that wire fraud charges and prosecutions are handled by federal authorities, and the specifics of the case, including the severity of the penalties, can vary based on the amount of money involved and the particulars of the fraudulent activity.