Fake Checks & Fraud Scams REPORT IT!

 

 Fake checks, fraudulent e-mails and sweepstakes, and foreign lottery scams are becoming increasingly common around the country and are estimated to cost Minnesotans $8-$10 million in losses annually – a figure that is most likely low due to underreporting. For this reason, the Minnesota Credit Union Network has teamed up with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and other private
and public organizations around the state to combat this fraud.

 

REPORT IT!

A first step to stopping these crimes is recognizing fraudulent activities and reporting them to law enforcement.

Call: (800) 333-2433
E-mail: dps.reportfraud@state.mn.us
 

This statewide initiative to combat fake checks and scams kicked off Sept. 26, 2007, with a press conference held at the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). This is the first coordinated effort in the country dedicated to fighting financial crimes directed at consumers.

In addition to MnCUN, the other private and public organizations in the state of Minnesota taking part in this initiative include: the American Association of Retired People (AARP), Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), Better Business Bureau, Minnesota’s Chiefs of Police & Sheriffs Association, Minnesota Board of Aging, Minnesota Bankers Association, Bremer Bank, and MoneyGram. Each organization will create awareness among their communities, employees and members and will gather information regarding the scams.

“This effort fits in very broadly with what we do for our members every day,” said Mark D. Cummins, MnCUN President & CEO. “We look forward to being a partner in this effort and hope this initiative will protect people all around Minnesota.”

The coalition will combat fraud that asks potential victims to send in payment to receive a prize or enter a drawing for a prize. Since these schemes are professional and appear to be legitimate, many people fall into this trap.

“These frauds are financially devastating. They are horrendous and cruel,” said John Willems Special Agent In-Charge of the Alcohol & Gambling Enforcement Division. “This type of fraud can ruin lives, and it impacts many.”

MnCUN is working closely with the DPS to create materials to educate member credit unions about these scams. Through these efforts, MnCUN and the other organizations in the coalition will assist the Minnesota Department of Public Safety in identifying, disrupting and stopping the agents of this fraud.

 

Copyright © 2007 Minnesota Credit Union Network