It has come to the attention of Black Hills Community Bank that counterfeit cashier’s checks, purporting to be issued by the bank, are circulating nationwide as part of a mystery shopping scam. These fraudulent checks utilize the correct routing number (091409733) of Black Hills Community Bank, adding a veneer of authenticity to deceive unsuspecting individuals.
These counterfeit instruments, however, bear little resemblance to genuine cashier’s checks issued by Black Hills Community Bank. Identifying features of these fake checks include an unknown color, the prominent words “CASHIER’S CHECK” at the top center followed by an indemnity statement, and a security statement in the top border stating: “For security purposes, the face of this check contains a colored background and microprinting in the border.” Notably, the bottom-left section incorrectly states: “Issued by Black Hills Community Bank, Rapid City, S.D., For Inquiries, Call: 1-866-464-9835.” It is crucial to understand that this phone number is not associated with Black Hills Community Bank. Another security statement, “Security Features Included. Details on Back,” is printed between two padlock icons at the bottom-center, along with “Countersigned if Amount is Over $5,000” beneath the signature line.
Reports indicate that counterfeit checks presented so far are dated December 3, 2008, are payable for $4,998, and list “S.I. Inc” as the remitter. Significantly, these fraudulent checks omit the genuine telephone number of Black Hills Community Bank, which is (605) 343-2422.
Mystery Shopping Scam Details
The counterfeit checks are linked to a mystery shopping scam. Victims receive correspondence, often bearing the letterhead of “Shoppers Inquest Inc.,” from addresses like “1000 W Century Avenue, Suite #410, Bismark, ND 58503.” These letters may include phone numbers such as 1 (647) 241-3750 or 1 (647) 887-9965, originating from Toronto, Ontario. The letters inform recipients they have been selected as mystery shoppers. A cashier’s check is enclosed with instructions to use it for purchases at various merchants and to transfer money via a well-known wire service. Recipients are directed to call (647) 241-3750 or (647) 887-9965, Ext 100, and then press 1 for further instructions.
Verify Check Authenticity with Black Hills Community Bank
Black Hills Community Bank urges individuals to exercise caution. Due to potential variations in counterfeit checks and related scams, it is vital to verify the authenticity of any cashier’s check purportedly from Black Hills Community Bank, especially if received from an unknown or questionable source.
To verify the authenticity of a Black Hills Community Bank cashier’s check, please contact Kevin Dietz, Senior Vice President, or Melissa Hood at Black Hills Community Bank, N.A., 821 Mt. Rushmore Road, Suite B, Rapid City, SD 57701. They can be reached by telephone at (605) 343-2422, or by fax at (605) 791-2576.
Report Counterfeit Checks and Scams
Consumers who receive these counterfeit or fictitious items and related materials are advised to file complaints with the appropriate agencies, including:
For matters concerning Black Hills Community Bank or national banks in general, contact:
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
Special Supervision Division
400 7th St. SW, Suite 3E-218; MS 8E-12
Washington, DC 20219
Phone: (202) 649-6450
Fax: (571) 293-4925
www.occ.gov
[email protected]
For more information on financial fraud, visit the OCC’s anti-fraud resources page.
Black Hills Community Bank is committed to protecting its customers and the public from fraud. Vigilance and prompt reporting are crucial in combating these scams.
