The Art of the Steal

This book is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information on the subject of the prevention of fraud. It is sold with the understanding that neither the Author nor the Publisher is engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services by publishing this book. As each individual situation is unique, questions relevant to the prevention of fraud and specific to the individual should be addressed to an appropriate professional to ensure that the situation has been evaluated carefully and appropriately. The Authors and Publisher specifically disclaim any liability, loss, or risk which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this work.

THE ART OF THE STEAL. Copyright © 2001 by Frank W. Abagnale. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. For information, address Broadway Books, a division of Random House, Inc., 1540 Broadway, New York, NY 10036.

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Abagnale, Frank W., 1948–

The art of the steal: how to protect yourself and your business from

fraud—America’s #1 crime / by Frank W. Abagnale.—1st ed.

p. cm.

1. Fraud—United States. 2. Swindlers and swindling—United States.

3. Consumer protection—United States. I. Title.

HV6695 .A23 2001

362.88—dc21 2001035607

eISBN: 978-0-7679-1091-0

v3.0