Accused of online fraud

A court yesterday heard how a man allegedly created an online user profile with HSBC Bank in his uncle's name and used it to order a cheque book with which he bought phone cards.

Duncan Buttigieg, 25, pleaded not guilty to misusing a computer, illegally using a password, using a false name, defrauding Maltapost, HSBC Bank and Mobisle Communications Limited, handling stolen property and relapsing on and before Tuesday.

Police Inspector Ian Abdilla told the court that Mr Buttigieg had been living with his uncle when he created the profile, using his uncle's name, with HSBC. Once the profile was in place, he created a current account and ordered a cheque book. He then used the cheques to buy phone cards and six of the cheques issued had bounced, the officer said.

Magistrate Jacqueline Padovani granted Mr Buttigieg bail against a personal guarantee of €5,000 and a deposit of €500.

Lawyers Manuel Mallia, Gianella Caruana Curran and José Herrera appeared for Mr Buttigieg.