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Beware: Fake Check Scams Fake checks, including cashiers
checks, can look so real even bank tellers can be fooled. However, just
because you can withdraw the money, doesn't mean the check is good. Forgeries
can take weeks to discover. YOU are responsible for the checks you deposit.
If a check bounces, you owe the bank any money you withdrew. If someone wants
to send you a check, insist on a cashier's check for the exact amount,
preferably from a local bank or one with a branch in your area. Never accept
a check and then agree to send a portion of the money back to the sender. For
information or to report a scam, visit www.fraud.org or call toll-free
1-800-876-7060.
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Unsolicited Checks And Credit Offers If you cash an unsolicited
check you've received in the mail, you could be agreeing to pay for products or
services you don't want or need, such as Internet access or membership in a web
directory. In addition, those "guarantees" for credit cards or loans, regardless of
credit history, are probably a scam. Legitimate lenders never guarantee credit. For
information on how to identify fraudulent solicitations, visit www.ftc.gov.
If You Have a Banking Problem
A number of federal, state
and local agencies regulate financial institutions.
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| State chartered banks and trust companies that are members of the Federal Reserve
System are covered by the Federal Reserve System. |
State chartered banks that are members of the Federal Reserve System are
regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. |
State chartered banks are also regulated by state banking authorities. |
| Banks with National in the name or N.A. after the name are regulated by the
Comptroller of Currency, U.S. Department of the Treasury. |
Federal savings and loans and federal savings banks are regulated by the
Office of Thrift Supervision, Department of the Treasury. |
Federally chartered credit unions are regulated by the National Credit
Union Administration. |
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