It has come to the attention of Bremer Bank that counterfeit official bank checks using their routing number (092005411) are being used across the nation in various scams, particularly those involving online auctions and fake job opportunities. It’s crucial to Check Bank checks carefully if you receive one unexpectedly, especially from online interactions. These fraudulent checks are designed to look real, but there are key features to help you identify them and avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
There are at least four known variations of these counterfeit checks currently in circulation. While they may initially appear to be genuine Bremer Bank checks, closer inspection will reveal discrepancies. Here’s what to look for to check bank checks for authenticity:
Identifying Counterfeit Check Variations
Variation #1:
These checks are characterized by a blue color with white marbling and a darker blue top border. Critically, the security statement at the top reads: “TO VERIFY AUTHENTICITY, SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR DESCRIPTION OF THE 11 SECURITY FEATURES.” The listed bank address is “109 S Mantoville Ave, Kasson, MN 55944.” A significant red flag is that the left side of the check is incomplete, with the first letter of each word on the left margin missing, appearing as if it has been cut off. Additionally, a heat shield security feature might be present in the bottom center.
Variation #2:
This version is printed on tan paper with white marbling and has a darker brown top border. The security statement on this variation says: “THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK.” Like the first variation, the address is listed as “109 S Mantoville Ave, Kasson, MN 55944.”
Variation #3:
The color of these checks is currently unknown, but they feature a dark outlined border and a crown-style icon in each corner. The security statement at the top is blurred and difficult to read. The address remains “109 S Mantoville Ave, Kasson, MN 55944.” This version also includes a heat shield security feature in the bottom center, along with a padlock icon and security statement along the right border and on the back of the check.
Variation #4:
These counterfeit checks are white with a green top border. The security statement for this type reads: “THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS INVISIBLE UV SECURITY AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK.” Look for green round icons inside both the right and left borders in the lower portion of the check. These icons should contain the security statement: “ICON APPEARS WITH UV LIGHT.” Again, the address is “109 S Mantoville Ave, Kasson, MN 55944.”
It’s important to note that these counterfeit checks reported so far are typically made out for amounts ranging from $1,880 to $7,250 and often have serial numbers starting with the 241100 series.
Scam Tactics Using Fake Bank Checks
Victims are often sent these fake checks as part of job opportunity or online auction scams. Here are two common scenarios:
Fake Job Scam (Shopper Assessment):
In this scam, individuals are contacted about a “shopper assessment” job. They receive a counterfeit check and are instructed to deposit it into their bank account. They are told to keep a portion, around $300, as payment and use the remaining funds to purchase specific gift cards. The scammer then asks for pictures of the gift card serial numbers. In one variation, the correspondence is signed by “Greg Sturge, Survey/Evaluator Consultant” with the email address [email protected] and a phone number (608) 535-4020. Another variation uses the name “Gary Cooper, Survey/Evaluator Consultant,” email [email protected], and phone number (213) 443-8126.
Online Auction Scam:
While not detailed in the original alert, online auction scams using counterfeit checks typically involve a buyer sending a fake check for an item listed for sale. The check amount might be higher than the sale price, and the seller is asked to wire back the difference. By the time the bank realizes the check is fake, the seller has already sent the goods and the money.
How to Verify a Bank Check and Report Fraud
To check bank check authenticity for Bremer Bank checks, it is crucial to contact them directly. You can reach their Loss Prevention Services Manager, Kristin Hines, to verify any check drawn on Bremer Bank, NA. Contact information is:
- Mail: 8555 Eagle Point Blvd., PO Box 1000, Lake Elmo, MN 55042
- Telephone: (800) 299-9990, Option 2
- Email: [email protected]
If you believe you have received a counterfeit check or have been a victim of a scam, you should file complaints with the following agencies:
- Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC):
- Special Supervision Division, 400 7th St. SW, Suite 3E-218; MS 8E-12 Washington, DC 20219
- Phone: (202) 649-6450
- Fax: (571) 293-4925
- Website: www.occ.gov
- Email: [email protected]
Remember, always check bank checks, especially if they are unexpected or related to online transactions or job offers. Protect yourself from fraud by being vigilant and verifying the legitimacy of any check you receive.
