Counterfeit Cashier's Checks of First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Lakewood, Lakewood, Ohio

The above-named bank has reported that at least two different counterfeit cashier’s checks issued in the name of First Federal Lakewood are being presented for payment nationwide in connection with a variety of internet scams, including but not limited to fictitious online auctions, job opportunities, lottery winnings, and beneficiary payments.


While the counterfeit checks resemble the bank’s authentic checks, counterfeit items may be identified by several traits:

• One of the following security statements may be located in the top border: "WARNING, THIS DOCUMENT HAS SECURITY FEATURES IN THE PAPER" or "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK."
• The bank logo in the upper-left corner presents in a narrow black font.
• The printing in the lower-left corner of the checks is not appropriately spaced, but rather garbled.
• The reverse side of the checks may include the wording, "PLEASE ENDORSE HERE" in the top-left corner. The following statement is separated by the last line of the endorsement section: "DO NOT WRITE, STAMP, OR SIGN BELOW THIS LINE. RESERVED FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTION."
• A security feature box may also be included on the back of the counterfeit check followed by the language, "Federal Banking Act 1947 – Federal reserve Reg CC."

Counterfeit checks presented to date have been made payable in varying amounts, including $2,150, $9,860, and $35,000, although the lower amounts are more common. A remitter name of Bridge Sofia may also appear on the "Customer’s Signature or Name" line.