NC S465

Creates a new Class H felony offense for knowingly selling, purchasing, installing, transferring, possessing, using, or accessing automated sales suppression devices (also called "zappers" or "phantom-ware" software)

Defines an automated sales suppression device as software that falsifies electronic records of cash registers and point-of-sale systems, including transaction data and reports, whether as a standalone program or embedded in register operating systems

Imposes criminal penalties of up to $10,000 in fines for convicted offenders, plus liability for all back taxes, fees, penalties, and interest owed to the State

Requires forfeiture to the State of all profits associated with the sale or use of these devices as an additional penalty

Became effective December 1, 2013, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date