Identity theft: fines.

Existing law makes it a misdemeanor to acquire or retain, with the intent to defraud, possession of the personal identifying information of another person. Under existing law, a 2nd commission of this offense and the commission of this crime against 10 or more victims may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Existing law makes it a crime, punishable as either a misdemeanor or a felony, to sell, transfer, or convey the personal identifying information of another with the intent to defraud. Existing law also makes it a felony to sell personal information with the knowledge that it will be used for an unlawful purpose. Under existing law a misdemeanor is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than one year in county jail and, unless otherwise provided, a fine not to exceed $1,000. This bill would specify that the fine for committing any of the above crimes, other than acquiring or retaining possession of the personal identifying information of 10 or more victims, if charged as a misdemeanor, is not to exceed $5,000, and the fine for acquiring or retaining possession of the personal identifying information of 10 or more victims, if charged as a misdemeanor, is not to exceed $10,000.