COUNTERFEIT CHECKS

Counterfeit checks continue to show up in our area on a regular basis. Businesses and the Public have done a much better job of recognizing these items and avoiding losses, but some losses are still occurring. The checks are generally sent with some sort of letter or email announcing a lottery win or other windfall award of money.
The checks are sometimes Official Checks or Cashier’s Checks or are drawn on major corporations. Also counterfeit money orders (Postal Money Orders, Wal-Mart Money Orders, etc.) are sent in this scam. The checks usually run between $1,000.00- $5,000.00.

The letter or notice describes this money as for taxes or fees associated with out of State Lottery. A phone number may also be provided to call for authentication/authorization. This line will be active for several days before it will be disconnected.

Western Union is the preferred method to send out the money and it generally is sent to Canada or Europe. When the check is discovered by your bank to be counterfeit, YOU are the one that they will expect to repay the money.

TIPS

• If you don’t play the lottery, you can’t win the lottery
• Call the issuing bank list on the check/money order and have them verify the item
• Contact local law enforcement for assistance if you aren’t sure of a check

Counterfeit checks may have account names of real businesses that are not aware their name or account information is being used. These businesses are not involved in the criminal activity and may have legitimate checks issued and being negotiated in the community.

The best way to verify a check is to contact the account holder and the bank that the check is drawn on by obtaining the telephone numbers from a telephone directory and not the telephone number on the check as it may be bogus also.

For further information or to report a financial crime, contact Lt. Randy Lampley at (731) 425-8567.