Check Scam Fraudulently Uses JELD-WEN Checks

Klamath Falls, Ore. February 27, 2006 —

Authorities have confirmed a check scam using what appear to be “real checks” from reputable companies. The bottom line is, if you were not expecting a check from JELD-WEN, then it is too good to be true.

How the scam works

A reputable company’s checks are stolen or mimicked. The thieves would be easily caught if they visited their local banks and cashed the checks themselves. So they mail checks to unsuspecting third parties and ask them to cash the checks. Then the thief entices the unsuspecting third party to send all or some of the money to someone else. The enticement can take many forms, claiming you need to pay “agent fees” or “clearance fees” and promising even larger sums of money.

So, why not cash the check? Here’s why.

In most cases, companies have accounting procedures in place to quickly identify fraudulently developed checks. The reputable company whose checks were stolen or fraudulently copied will take steps to limit their exposure including closing accounts and flagging false or duplicate check numbers. So even if you cash the check, the bank will most likely require you to pay it back, or freeze your accounts, once the bank realizes the check did not clear after making its way through the system.

If you think you have received check-scam correspondence, contact your local authorities.