Realistic fake check scam
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By Dave Taylor
A very convincing check arrived this week via UPS next day air to a Lewisport resident who recognized it as a scam, which has apparently hit many people across the country this week.
The check, for $3,950, was sent as payment for the installation of an advertisement on the recipient’s vehicle, with $650 for the resident and $3,300 to be sent to the installer.
Inside the small manila envelope were the check and instructions to text (831) 999-3024 and as for Mr James A Foster from Paid to Drive Advert Board and give your full name, the check number and amount.
The Clarion texted the number and the reply said to deposit the check and send proof of deposit and then an installer would come place an advertisement on our car, for which we would be paid a weekly sum.
“When the funds are available, you will deduct your first weeks payment of $600 plus extra $50 for bonus, the balance of $3300 is being used for materials, transportation and the specialist service charge,” the scammer replied.
We didn’t attempt to deposit the check, but all of the security features checked out. It looked correct, had the proper watermark, and the watermark even changed color when scratched with a coin.
However, a quick online search found dozens of people who had received similar checks, all next day air, with directions for various scams. All envelopes had the same return address, 4218 Ruby Vista Dr. #200, Elko, Nevada.
Tracking the envelope we had showed it was actually sent from Colorado.
A spokesman for the company at the return address, Newmont, said it’s aware of the scam and is working with police to determine how their name was involved.
“When we learned about it, we notified law enforcement and it is apparently in their hands. Obviously, we condemn this attempt to use our name and location to defraud anyone,” said Omar Jabara.
For information on fake check scams, visit ftc.gov/fakechecks.
