If you received a cashier’s check claiming to be from Chief Financial Credit Union, STOP. Do not deposit it. Do not send money to anyone.
We’ve been made aware that scammers are creating fake cashier’s checks using our credit union’s name and information. These checks are completely fraudulent, and we want to protect you from becoming their next victim.
This is NOT a Chief Financial Credit Union Check
Let’s be crystal clear: Chief Financial Credit Union did not issue these checks. These criminals are using our name, but we have no connection to these fraudulent documents whatsoever.
Here’s How These Scammers Operate
The con artists behind these fake checks typically contact victims with stories about lottery winnings, mystery shopping opportunities, or other “too good to be true” scenarios. In this case, they’re using a fake organization called the “World Lottery Association” to convince people they’ve won money they never entered to win.
They send a cashier’s check that appears legitimate and ask you to:
- Deposit the check
- Keep a portion for yourself
- Send the remaining money back to them or to a third party
This is a scam. The check will initially appear to clear your account, but within days or weeks, your bank will discover it’s fake. You’ll be responsible for the entire amount, plus fees.
Red Flags to Watch For
While we won’t detail every aspect of these fake checks (we don’t want to give scammers a tutorial), here are warning signs:
- Unexpected windfall: You didn’t enter any lottery or contest
- Overpayment scenarios: They’re asking you to return excess funds
- Urgency pressure: They want you to act immediately
- Wire transfer requests: They want you to send money via wire transfer, gift cards, or other untraceable methods
- Poor communication: Emails or letters with spelling errors, generic greetings, or vague details
What to Do If You Received a Fake Check
- Do not deposit the check
- Do not send any money to anyone
- Contact your bank immediately if you’ve already deposited it
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- File a complaint with your state’s attorney general office
Protect Yourself from Cashier’s Check Scams
Remember: legitimate cashier’s checks are typically used for transactions where you’ve already agreed to purchase something or pay someone you know. If someone sends you an unexpected cashier’s check, especially with instructions to send money back, it’s a scam.
Real cashier’s checks don’t come with strings attached.
Our Commitment to Community Protection
At Chief Financial Credit Union, our mission is to inspire, empower, and enrich communities. That means protecting everyone – not just our members – from financial fraud. We’re working diligently to combat these scams and will continue to alert the community about threats like this.
These criminals are counting on people not knowing how to spot their schemes. By staying informed and sharing this information with your friends and family, you’re helping protect our entire community.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have questions about this scam or want to verify whether a check is legitimate, contact Chief Financial Credit Union directly at 248-253-7900. We’re here to help protect you from these predators.
Remember: when it comes to unexpected money, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts, and don’t let scammers pressure you into making quick decisions with your money.
Stay safe, and thank you for helping us spread the word about this important security alert.