wire fraud

American  

noun

1. the crime of using interstate wire, television, or radio communications with the intent to defraud.

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Etymology

Origin of wire fraud

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

The problem is that the wire fraud statute does not clearly lay out what counts as a “scheme to defraud.”

From Slate • May 1, 2026

Mejia said it became the catalyst for a federal investigation into Alexander Soofer, who in January was charged with wire fraud amid allegations that he took $23 million in public funds meant for homeless people.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

He has been charged with one count of wire fraud, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Authorities have charged the owners of two Minnesota autism-therapy centers—Smart Therapy and Star Autism Center—with wire fraud.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

In Atlanta, the Prophet had already pled guilty to one charge of conspiracy, one charge of wire fraud and one charge of interstate transportation of stolen property.

From The Hacker Crackdown, law and disorder on the electronic frontier by Sterling, Bruce