service theft
[/ˈsɜːrvɪs θɛft/]
nounpl: service thefts
roubo de serviço
1. The unauthorized use, diversion, or appropriation of services (such as utilities, telecommunications, or professional services) without payment or permission
The utility company discovered service theft when they found illegal cable connections to their power lines.
A companhia de energia descobriu roubo de serviço quando encontrou conexões ilegais de cabo em suas linhas de energia.
2. The criminal act of obtaining services through fraudulent means or deception
Service theft of internet connectivity has become a common problem in urban areas.
O roubo de serviço de conectividade de internet tornou-se um problema comum em áreas urbanas.
3. Obtaining professional services (legal, medical, repair) without compensation or fraudulently
He was charged with service theft for using the consultant's expertise without paying the agreed fees.
Ele foi acusado de roubo de serviço por usar a experiência do consultor sem pagar as taxas acordadas.
Service theft is a significant problem in both Brazil and the United States, particularly in lower-income communities. In Brazil, illegal electricity connections ('gatos') are culturally recognized as a widespread urban issue. In NYC and other major US cities, cable and internet theft remains a persistent problem for utility providers. Both regions treat this as a serious criminal offense with potential fines and imprisonment.
NYC Slang
stealing cable / juice jacking
Related Idioms & Phrases
tap into the line (electricity theft)
piggyback on the network (internet/telecom theft)
jump the meter (utility theft)
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →