Can you get banned for using a fake credit card?
Isabella Turner
Updated on January 20, 2026
In most jurisdictions, this would fall under fraud and intent to defraud, because you are using deception to try to obtain goods and services without paying for them. So, yes, it would be highly illegal.
What happens if you use a fake card?
If it turns out that the credit card number that you faked actually belongs to someone, then you’ve committed felony identity theft. You could also be charged with fraudulent theft of services. Minor offenses can result in fines, jail time, or both, but felony-level credit card theft and fraud can lead to prison.
How long can you go to jail for using a fake credit card?
Possessing a blank card with the intent to turn it into a counterfeit card is a misdemeanor under California Penal Code Section 484i PC that is punishable by up to six months in jail. Altering cards or possessing card counterfeiting equipment is a “wobbler” that can result in a three-year prison sentence.
What is CVC in card?
The Card Verification Code, or CVC*, is an extra code printed on your debit or credit card. With most cards (Visa, MasterCard, bank cards, etc.) it is the final three digits of the number printed on the signature strip on the reverse of your card.
Do fake credit cards work on free trials?
Is it illegal to use different fake credit card numbers for free trials? Using fake credit card number is illegal regardless of what you use them for.
How can you tell a fake card?
9 Must-Know Ways to Spot a Fake Credit or Debit Card
- Symmetry. First, look at the numbers to ensure they are evenly spaced and aligned.
- Correlation. Next, check to see if the account number matches the card name.
- Magnetic Strip.
- Receipt Match.
- Hologram.
- Signature Strip.
- UV Logos.
- Microprint.
Is it safe to give CVV number?
CVV: Every debit and credit card has a card verification value or CVV number on its reverse. This number is vital for completing online transactions. This too is clearly printed on your card, and you should not share it with anyone. It is a secret number and a vital security feature.
What happens if you use a fake credit card number?
There are six moves you should make once your bank account gets past this magical number. If you provide a fake credit card to a company, the charge won’t go through, and then you would legally be in debt to the company the amount that would have been charged. If they want to, they can take you to court, and you would have to pay them the money.
What happens if you use a stolen credit card?
If you do use a fake or stolen credit card to buy things, you’ve run afoul of several laws, like Telecommunication Fraud (formerly known as wire fraud), and theft of what you brought, and likely some computer-based statutes. If you do the deal but don’t really buy anything, you are still in violation of fraud statutes.
Can you go to jail for using a fake credit card in Michigan?
Speaking generally, under Michigan law, the act of providing a false credit card for payment may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, and it’s usually charged as a felony. In theory, if the business is legitimate and if there is an actual prize, it could arguably be felonious conduct to provide a false credit card as part of the transaction.
How are you accidentally committing credit card fraud?
4 Ways You’re Accidentally Committing Credit Card Fraud 1 Using someone else’s credit card. If you use someone else’s card without permission, it’s fraud. 2 Using a fake credit card number to sign up for a free trial online. 3 Disputing your own credit card charges. 4 Lying on your credit card application. …