NCJ Number
79169
Journal
Computer/Law Journal Volume: 2 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1980) Pages: 471-720
Date Published
1980
Length
250 pages
Annotation
Presented for students of computer crime, this article contains a summary and selected documents from the United States v. Rifkin case in which a computer professional stole $10.2 million from the Security Pacific National Bank in Los Angeles by manipulating the wire transfer system.
Abstract
In 1978, Stanley Mark Rifkin, an experienced professional in electronic transfer systems, investigated the Security Pacific National Bank's transfer procedures as part of his regular job which involved designing a backup system for the bank's authorization codes, and in October 1979 successfully transferred $10.2 million to a Swiss bank account. This article traces Rifkin's crime, his return to the United States with the diamonds, and describes how information volunteered by his lawyer and a business associate helped the FBI catch Rifkin. Evidence collected to make the case is discussed, including depositions from Swiss authorities. Rifkin's defense efforts, which focused on search and seizure issues, are outlined. While on bail, Rifkin planned another wire transfer robbery and sought help from an individual who turned out to be an FBI undercover agent. With additional charges pending, Rifkin pleaded guilty, was tried in February 1979, and sentenced to 8 years in prison. Subsequent motions to reduce his sentence and a civil complaint from the Security Pacific National Bank are detailed. An analysis of Rifkin's personality emphasizes his amateurishness, a game playing mentality which is characteristic of many computer criminals, and a loner image. Documents include defendant's motions, depositions taken in Switzerland, and reporters' transcripts of the trial. Over 60 footnotes are provided.