First Federal Bank Dickson has issued an alert regarding counterfeit cashier’s checks circulating nationwide. These fraudulent checks are being used in connection with online auction scams and secret shopper schemes, targeting individuals across the country. It’s crucial for the public to be aware of these deceptive practices and learn how to identify these fake checks to avoid financial losses. This article provides detailed information to help you recognize counterfeit cashier’s checks associated with First Federal Bank Dickson and understand the scams involved.
Identifying Counterfeit First Federal Bank Dickson Cashier’s Checks
While these counterfeit checks are designed to resemble authentic checks from First Federal Bank Dickson, there are key characteristics that can help you distinguish them. Being vigilant and checking for these features can protect you from falling victim to these scams. Here are the traits of the fraudulent cashier’s checks to watch out for:
- Marbled Background: The counterfeit checks feature a blue and white deeply marbled background. This is a visual element that differs from genuine checks.
- Black Ink Check Number: The check number on the fake checks is printed in black ink, which might be different from the standard printing on authentic First Federal Bank Dickson checks.
- Dark Blue Security Border: A dark blue top border is present, containing the security statement: “FOR SECURITY PURPOSES, THE FACE OF THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING IN THE BORDER.” This statement itself is intended to mimic security features but is part of the counterfeit design.
- No Underscore for Written Amount: On the counterfeit checks, the written dollar amount is not underscored. Legitimate checks often have this detail for security and clarity.
- Black Box Around Numerical Amount: The numerical dollar amount is enclosed in a black box. This boxed format is a significant red flag for these counterfeit checks.
- Bottom Security Statement: At the bottom, between two padlock icons, the checks state: “SECURITY FEATURES INCLUDED. DETAILS ON BACK.” This is another attempt to appear secure, but it’s a feature of the fake checks.
These counterfeit First Federal Bank Dickson checks have appeared in various amounts, ranging from $1,300 to $10,500. Notably, many have been associated with a remitter name of Donovan Newton. If you receive a cashier’s check from First Federal Bank Dickson with these characteristics, especially in connection to an unexpected job offer or online purchase, exercise extreme caution.
Secret Shopper and Online Auction Scams Using Fake Checks
The scams associated with these counterfeit First Federal Bank Dickson cashier’s checks often involve either secret shopping or online auctions. In the secret shopper scam, potential victims are typically contacted via email regarding a job opportunity. In this instance, initial contact emails have been linked to a Matt Cox ([email protected]), and subsequent emails from a Jeremy Davis ([email protected]). A key indicator of the scam is the poor writing quality in these emails.
Victims who engage with the offer receive a package in the mail containing one of these counterfeit First Federal Bank Dickson cashier’s checks. Instructions accompanying the check direct the recipient to deposit it immediately into their bank account. They are told to keep a portion, often around $270, as payment and for expenses. Another sum, around $100, is designated for purchasing items from a well-known retailer. Crucially, the victim is instructed to wire transfer the remaining balance to a third party. Scammers often create a sense of urgency by offering an additional commission, such as $150, for completing these transactions quickly. Victims are then asked to email transfer details and evaluation forms to email addresses like [email protected] and [email protected].
It’s important to understand that when the counterfeit check bounces after a few days or weeks, the victim is responsible for the funds withdrawn, and the money wired to the scammers is usually unrecoverable.
Verifying Checks and Reporting Fraud
To verify the authenticity of any cashier’s check purportedly drawn on First Federal Bank Dickson, it is recommended to directly contact the bank. You can reach BSA Officer Sharon Blair for verification and further information.
Contact Information for First Federal Bank Dickson:
- By Mail: Sharon Blair, BSA Officer, 611 E. College St., Dickson, TN 37055
- By Telephone: (615) 446-2822
- By Fax: (615) 446-3200
- By Email: [email protected]
If you believe you have received a counterfeit check or have been targeted by this scam, it is vital to report it to the appropriate authorities.
Report Counterfeit Checks and Scams To:
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Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) Special Supervision Division:
- Address: 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]
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC): www.ftc.gov
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Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov
Protect yourself from financial fraud by being informed and cautious. Always verify the legitimacy of unexpected checks and be wary of unsolicited job offers or online deals that seem too good to be true. Contact First Federal Bank Dickson directly if you have any concerns about a check you’ve received.
