An "access device" is any means of account access that can be used to obtain anything of value. Obviously, for example, a credit card is an access device. But so is an ATM card personal identification number.

Section 1029 of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 USC § 1029) makes it a crime to use, traffic in, or possess counterfeit access devices, unauthorized access devices, and various types of equipment. Offenses under this section carry a maximum 10-year or 15-year sentence.

Sentences for violations of section 1029 are governed by section 2B1.1 of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines Manual.

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Mark.

This page is a work in progress. If you'd like to discuss Federal computer crime laws, please contact me