Travelers Checks Fraud Scheme

Criminals in Nigeria and the United States are mailing or couriering counterfeit travelers checks to U.S. consumers either unsolicited or in settlement of goods including internet orders, rental deposits and others. The checks are sent along with a request that the accompanying checks be cashed, a percentage of the value retained for the recipient’s benefit, and the balance remitted to addresses mainly in Nigeria/West Africa.

If you receive any kind of unsolicited check in the mail or via courier, do not cash it. Call the company issuing the check, explain how you received it and request verification that the check is negotiable. The issuing company will then either verify the check or provide instructions on disposition of the check.