Counterfeit Cashier’s Checks of Citizens Savings Bank, Clarks Summit, Penn.

The above-named bank has reported that counterfeit cashier’s checks using a correct routing number of 231375151 are being presented for payment nationwide in connection with a mystery shopping scam.

The counterfeit checks resemble the bank’s authentic checks; however, the counterfeit checks may be identified by the following traits:

• The checks contain a thick, dark border, which includes the following security statement: “THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK.”
• The words “OFFICIAL CHECK” are printed on the check face beneath the top border.
• Check numbers begin with “05003”.
• The number “5 505” appears in the bottom left corner of the check.

Counterfeit checks presented to date have been made payable in the amount of $1,450 and are dated June 15, 2015.

Letters accompanying the checks instruct the potential victim to send a text message to (208) 907-1401 on receipt of the check and to immediately deposit the check into his or her bank account. The potential victim is further instructed to retain $200 as a salary payment, to use $50 to make a purchase at a well-known chain store, and to wire transfer the balance of the funds to a third party. The letters ask for transfer details and evaluation forms to be e-mailed to [aundisputedboss@outlook.com].

For additional information and to verify the authenticity of cashier’s checks drawn on Citizens Savings Bank, please contact one of the following individuals:

Vice President of Deposit Operations JoAnn Jones by mail at PO Box 567, Clarks Summit, PA 18411-0567; by telephone at (570) 587-0626; or by e-mail at jjones@citizens-savings.com.

Assistant Deposit Operations Manager Connie Davis by mail at PO Box 567, Clarks Summit, PA 18411-0567; by telephone at (570) 587-0605; or by e-mail at cdavis@citizens-savings.com.