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The definition of mail fraud is any scheme that tries to unlawfully gain valuables or money by means of the postal system. Mail fraud is a federal offense that can provide for a higher penalty of any criminally fraudulent activity if involves using the United States Postal Service.
Types of Mail Fraud
There are several different types of mail fraud. First is the misrepresentation or non-delivery of mail order merchandise. There are many different variations of this type of mail fraud. An example of the simplest form of mail fraud is to order merchandise through the mail, make a payment, and receive nothing. Other variations of this type of mail fraud are the use of misleading descriptions in advertisements or the deliberate sale of stolen or defective products.
Internet and online auction fraud is another type of mail fraud if the mail is being used at any point in the scheme, including a request that a check or money order be sent to pay for auction merchandise that will go undelivered.
Misrepresentation of who the sender is, forged document delivery, or fake request for personal information is another type of mail fraud if conducted using the United States Postal Service.
Theft from the mail is another form of mail fraud. Packages containing merchandise or envelopes appearing to contain checks are ideal targets. Credit cards mailed by banks to their depositors are also prime targets for those looking to steal from the mail. Criminals committing mail fraud and stealing checks can alter those checks by check washing to change the amounts and the name of the recipient.
If a criminal is indicted on devising any scheme to defraud, obtaining money or property by false pretenses, representations, or promises, or to sell, dispose of, loan something of value and places in any post office for delivery using a mail carrier, then they shall be fine or imprisoned for up to twenty years, or both. If the mail fraud involves or affects a financial institution, then the person committing the fraud could be fined up to $1 million or imprisoned up to 30 years, or both. If someone commits mail fraud by the use of a fake name or address, then they could be fined or imprisoned up to five years, or both. If you suspect you have been the victim of mail fraud, then you should report it to the authorities or the post office immediately.
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