It has come to the attention of Pioneer Bank in Roswell, New Mexico, that fraudulent versions of their cashier’s checks are circulating nationwide. These counterfeit checks are being used in connection with an online mystery shopping scam, and it’s crucial for individuals and businesses to be aware of how to identify them. This alert details the specific features of these fake checks and provides guidance on what to do if you encounter one.
Identifying Counterfeit Pioneer Bank Cashier’s Checks
While these counterfeit checks are designed to closely resemble legitimate Pioneer Bank cashier’s checks, there are several key features that can help you distinguish them from the real ones. Being vigilant and checking for these elements can protect you from falling victim to this scam.
Security Features to Watch For
- Security Statement: The counterfeit checks include a security statement in the top border that reads: “WARNING: THIS DOCUMENT HAS SECURITY FEATURES IN THE PAPER.” This statement is not typically found on genuine checks.
- “CASHIER’S CHECK” Designation: The words “CASHIER’S CHECK” are prominently printed in the top-center portion of the check.
- Incorrect City and State: Under the Pioneer Bank logo, the city and state are printed as “ROSEWELL NM.” The correct spelling is “Roswell, NM”.
- Signature Requirement Statement: A statement beneath the signature lines reads: “TWO SIGNATURES REQUIRED OVER $50,000.00.” This may be an unusual threshold or statement for standard cashier’s checks.
It’s also important to note that the counterfeit checks reported so far have been issued in varying amounts and typically lack remitter names, adding another layer of suspicion if you receive one unexpectedly.
The Mystery Shopping Scam Unveiled
This counterfeit check scam is tied to a deceptive mystery shopping employment offer. Scammers are targeting individuals through email, promising mystery shopper positions with a company called At Your Service Marketing.
How the Scam Works
Potential victims receive an email about a mystery shopping job opportunity. Subsequently, they receive a package containing one of these counterfeit Pioneer Bank cashier’s checks. The package includes instructions that direct the recipient to:
- Deposit the Check: Deposit the counterfeit check into their personal bank account.
- Wait 24 Hours: Wait for a brief period, typically 24 hours, before proceeding with the “assignment.”
- Confirm Receipt: Send a text message to (216) 839-0634 to confirm they have received the check and instructions.
- Commission and “Expenses”: The instructions state that the recipient should keep $300 as their commission and use the remaining funds to purchase a specific brand of prepaid cards.
- Send Prepaid Card Information: Once the prepaid cards are purchased, the victim is instructed to photograph the front and back of each card and email these images, along with evaluation information, to [email protected].
This is a classic example of a financial scam. By the time the bank identifies the check as fraudulent, the victim has already sent the money (via prepaid cards) to the scammers and is responsible for the deposited amount.
Verify and Report Suspicious Checks
To protect yourself from becoming a victim of this scam, it is vital to be cautious and verify the authenticity of any cashier’s checks you receive, especially if they are unexpected or related to online job offers.
Contact Pioneer Bank Directly
If you receive a check that you suspect may be counterfeit and is purportedly from Pioneer Bank, especially one with the characteristics mentioned above, do not hesitate to verify its authenticity. You can contact Pioneer Bank directly using the information provided to confirm the check’s legitimacy:
- Contact Person: Cash Management Supervisor Kate Davenport
- Mail: 3000 North Main Street, Roswell, NM 88201
- Telephone: (575) 624-5243
- Fax: (575) 624-5269
- Email: [email protected]
Report to Authorities
If you have received a counterfeit check or believe you have been targeted by this scam, it’s important to report it to the appropriate authorities. This helps to track and potentially stop these fraudulent activities. You can 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]
For further information on financial fraud and how to protect yourself, visit the OCC’s anti-fraud resources page.
Stay vigilant and informed to safeguard yourself from check fraud and other financial scams. Always verify the legitimacy of unexpected checks and report any suspicious activity to the bank and relevant authorities.
