SCAM ALERT!!

Fake check scams have become more prevalent as online auction sites and classified ads have gained popularity. Tri-County Bank wants to educate customers by exposing the scam and offering tips to avoid becoming a victim.

There are many variations of the fake check scam, but the common thread is a stranger proposing to send the victim a check and have the victim wire money in return. The stranger may be someone offering to buy something you advertised for sale, pay you to work at home, or give you an advance on a sweepstakes you won.

“Regardless of how the contact is initiated, the bottom line is this: if someone you don’t know wants to pay you by check but wants you to wire money back, it’s a scam,” said Mindy Burbach, Director of Marketing.

Today’s technology enables fraudsters to create fake checks that look so real it is often difficult for experts to determine they are fake with the naked eye.

We have received several reports from the area that residents are receiving a phone call from numbers with a (214) or (602) area code telling them their ATM or Debit Card has been deactivated.　 The automated system then asks them to push 1 to verify their information.　 It then prompts the caller to enter their full card number.　 The system in no way identifies with a certain bank, just says your card has been deactivated.

Customers are reminded that Tri-County Bank, or any bank, will not try to collect their information via phone, text or email.　 We already have your personal data.

If someone replied to the call, and gave their personal information, they need to call VISA Check and Cash Card Services immediately at 800-264-5578 to cancel their card.　 Then they need to contact their local Bank.

We want to assure customers that their information was not compromised, and if they did not respond to the call and enter their information, their account is safe.　

The scammers were performing a "phishing" scam in which they call random numbers in the area.　 When customers respond to the call and give their account information with their pin, then the scammers can access the account.

So far, Tri-County Bank has had no reports of anyone responding to the scam.　 We will work with customers who gave their personal information to resolve issues.　 If you have any questions, please call our corporate office at 888-632-7004.

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