In December of 2001, a successful company that many believed would always thrive filed for bankruptcy. With their vacated business they managed to take many of the pensions of their hardworking former employees. Officials were suspicious, therefore beginning the five year long investigations of the financial dealings with Enron. The FBI government defines white collar crimes as the popular term first quoted in 1939 by saying that is simply boils down to lying, cheating, and stealing. Upon the investigations discoveries, one Enron investigator found that Enron had not only violated what he understood to be basic laws of business, but in doing so also cheated investors and manipulated accounting information. It was also discovered that they allegedly sold power to the state of California at outrageously overpriced fees. Enron was guilty, but that does not necessarily mean that if you were charged with a white collar crime that you are guilty. The FBI government gives a complete list of possible white collar crimes that you could have been charged with:

• Securities and commodities fraud;
• Mortgage fraud;
• Mass marketing fraud;
• Insurance fraud;
• Hedge fund fraud;
• Healthcare fraud;
• Corporate fraud;
• Bankruptcy fraud; and
• Asset forfeiture / money laundering

Some specific white collar crimes include telemarketing fraud and identity theft. When most telemarketer defrauds others, they use words such as '"act now" or may also report winning a "free gift, vacation, or prize." The FBI reports that they may try to persuade others that their scheme is a smart move by saying "You can't afford to miss this 'high-profit, no-risk' offer." They might ask for personal financial information such as credit card, bank account information, or they might ask for money to be sent to them; also, they may urge others not to consult anyone regarding credentials with their company, including references.

If you are anxious about being charged with identity theft, then this information is imperative: When a thief wants to assume an identity, there are a few ways in which that person will try and gain access to personal information. Those who are looking to gain control of people's personal identity to commit a crime can obtain information by sifting through trash, stealing a purse or wallet, or unlawfully gaining access to bank account information. Those with identity theft in mind may also try to contact some via internet or telephone.

If you have mistakenly given anyone the impression of being a white collar criminal, it is important to act quickly. It is suggested to get the facts into place via paper trail documentation to present your case. Also, here are some procedures or habits that promote credible business and helps avoid suspicion or run-ins with the law:

• Let your clients research the company if you are asking for money. If others cannot find any credible sources or cites about your company they may not give financial support at all. Make sure that you are enlisted with and have a good reputation with credible sources such as the Better Business Bureau, the state attorney general or the National Fraud Information Center.
• Give your client a name or means of identification. Sometimes even this information is false though; so again, make sure it is verifiable with credible cites.
• If asking to give to an organization, it might be plausible to mention the percentage amount that goes toward commission as well the amount that goes toward the organization, to show the legitimation of the organization.
• If your company promises a service for a fee, it is suggested to perform the service before being financially compensated.
• The general rule is that companies that are credible will not pressure you for a quick answer, therefore it is important to treat the clientele with courtesy and respect.
• If something is deemed free, make sure it is really free of charge.
• It looks suspicious when credit card information is requested; therefore try to avoid this at all costs.

It is never a good idea to use information that was found. A good rule to follow is that there should not be any secrets or information obtained without the client's consent. Again, make sure to document everything or find the proof needed to clear your name. The more information that is provided, the better the chances are for a positive verdict to be issued.