Special Alert: SA2007006

Special Alerts

CommunityAmerica Credit Union, Lenexa, Kansas, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit official checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 022000868, which is assigned to Integrated Payment Systems, Inc., Englewood , Colorado . CommunityAmerica Credit Union issues official checks through an Integrated Payment Systems, Inc., account held at Citibank, N.A., Buffalo , New York . The counterfeit items are markedly dissimilar to authentic official checks and have a security feature description embedded within the top border. The bank's logo and name are displayed inside a darkened rectangle in the top-left corner.

Authentic checks have a blue cubed background and display a dark blue border across the top. A security feature description is printed along the bottom border. Near the center is an embossment containing eight arrowheads pointing right toward "PAY ONLY," and the printed amount.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Jerry Affolter
Fraud Investigator, Loss Prevention Services
CommunityAmerica Credit Union
9777 Ridge Drive
Lenexa, Kansas 66219
Telephone: (913) 905-8044
Fax: (913) 905-7044
E-mail: jaffolter@cacu.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Fitchburg Savings Bank, FSB, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit official checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation. The counterfeit items are reportedly associated with a secret shopper scam and are included with correspondence from "The Apex Evaluation and Marketing Services" based in Ontario , Canada .

The counterfeit items display the routing number 211370736, which is assigned to Fitchburg Savings Bank, FSB, but are markedly dissimilar to authentic personal money orders. The counterfeit items have ornate borders on three sides and display the words "OFFICIAL CHECK" inside a rectangle with rounded corners centered within the top border. The following security statement appears on each side of the rectangle: "HOLD THIS DOCUMENT UP TO THE LIGHT TO VIEW TRUE WATERMARK." The bank's "FSB" logo, name and branch address (" 9 Sack Blvd. , Leominster , MA 01453 ") appear in the lower-left corner. The bank's name is repeated as "DRAWER" above the signature line.

Fitchburg Savings Bank, FSB issues personal money orders, rather than official checks. Authentic items display "PERSONAL MONEY ORDER" in the top center and are not valid for more than $1,000.

Copies of a counterfeit item and authentic personal money order (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

John E. Flores
Manager, Main Office
Fitchburg Savings Bank, FSB
Telephone: (978) 345-1061, extension 2324
Fax: (978) 343-2240
E-mail: jflores@fsbfsb.com

Alternate contact:

Mary Largey
Retail Administrative Coordinator
Fitchburg Savings Bank, FSB
780 Main Street
Fitchburg, Massachusetts 01420
Telephone: (978) 665-2320
Fax: (978) 343-2240
E-mail: mlargey@fsbfsb.com

To report this scam or any other scam based in or mailed from Canada , please contact Phonebusters, which is a joint partnership between the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Phonebusters is interested in receiving copies of scam letters, particularly those involving Canadian mailing addresses or telephone numbers. Records relating to the payment of advance fees should also be forwarded to Phonebusters. This information is used to assist in the strategic targeting of would-be fraudsters. Scam letters should be forwarded to the Phonebusters National Call Center (PNCC) as follows:

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

First Mutual Bank, Bellevue, Washington, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 325171232, which is assigned to First Mutual Bank, but are dissimilar to authentic official checks. The counterfeit items display "CASHIER'S CHECK" near the top center. The following security statement is displayed within a darkened top border: "THE DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK." "FIRST MUTUAL SAVINGS BANK, 10001 NE 8th St , Bellevue , WA 98004 " appears in the top-left corner.

First Mutual Bank issues official checks, rather than cashier's checks. Authentic checks display the routing number 122042205, which is a payable-through account issued by Travelers Express Company, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota, and drawn on Preferred Bank, Los Angeles, California. The items have ornate blue borders on three sides and display the words "OFFICIAL CHECK" inside a green rectangle that is incorporated within the top border and between the following security statements: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK PRINTED ON THE BACK. THE FRONT OF THE DOCUMENT" and "HAS A MICRO-PRINT SIGNATURE LINE AND BORDER. ABSENCE OF THESE FEATURES WILL INDICATE A COPY." The bank's logo, name, P.O. Box, city, state and zip code appear in the top-left corner. A security feature statement is displayed within the bottom blue border.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Marta H. Reed
Executive Project Coordinator
First Mutual Savings Bank
400 108th Avenue, North East
Bellevue, Washington 98004
Telephone: (425) 453-5301, extension 119
Fax: (425) 453-5302
E-mail: marta.reed@firstmutual.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

SouthwestUSA Bank, Las Vegas, Nevada, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 122402146, which is assigned to SouthwestUSA Bank, but are dissimilar to authentic cashier's checks. The counterfeit items display a security feature statement within a darkened top border. The words "CASHIER'S CHECK" are inside of a box in the top center. The bank's logo (an arch over the bank's name) and "A PRIVATE BANK" appear in the top-left corner. The bank's name and address appear to the right of the logo. The date and numerical amount are inside of boxes on the right side.

Authentic checks display the bank's logo above its address and telephone number in the top center. The words "Cashier's Check" appear in the top-right corner and a security feature description is printed vertically above a padlock icon within the right border.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Hilary Nelson
Assistant Vice President and Operations Manager
SouthwestUSA Bank
4043 South Eastern Avenue
Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
Telephone: (702) 853-4717
Fax: (702) 853-5798
E-mail: hnelson@swusabank.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Umpqua Bank, Roseburg, Oregon, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 123205054, which is assigned to Umpqua Bank. The counterfeit items are similar to authentic cashier's checks; however, authentic checks display the bank's telephone number ("1-866-486-7782") and Web site address to the right of the bank's logo and name in the top-center area. The counterfeit items are printed on heavy check stock and are light orange in color. Authentic checks are light blue in color.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Christiana Russell
Corporate Security & Loss Prevention
Umpqua Bank
One SW Columbia Street, 14th Floor
Portland, Oregon 97258
Telephone: (503) 727-4282
Fax: (503) 727-4273
E-mail: ChristinaRussell@umpqabank.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Alliance Bank, Lake City, Minnesota, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the name American Bank, Eau Claire , Wisconsin , are in circulation. American Bank merged with another institution in 2005, and the surviving institution merged into Alliance Bank in 2007.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 092005411, which is assigned to First Interstate Bank, Helena , Montana . American Bank issued cashier's checks through an account at First Interstate Bank; however, cashier's checks bearing the name American Bank have not been issued since July 2005.

The counterfeit items are relatively similar to authentic cashier's checks previously issued. However, the authentic American Bank cashier's checks have a security statement beneath the top border, while the counterfeit items have a security statement embedded in the top border. Authentic cashier's checks had a decorative border.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Ann Hartle
Compliance Officer
Alliance Bank
310 Pinnacle Way, P.O. Box 308
Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54702-0308
Telephone: (715) 834-5327
E-mail: ann.hartle@alliancebanks.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents, and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html . To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is reminding financial institutions, businesses and consumers that fraudulent correspondence claiming to be from the FDIC continues to be mailed, faxed and e-mailed in the United States and other countries. The correspondence uses various techniques to gain the trust of recipients in hopes they will provide sensitive personal information, including bank account numbers, that can be used to steal money and other assets. Recipients should NOT, under any circumstances, respond to the fraudulent requests. Institutions also are encouraged to inform customers that fraud artists may use the names of the FDIC and other government agencies and to take appropriate precautions.

The criminals, knowing that people trust the FDIC name, have duplicated the official logo and seal in fraudulent letters, forms, certificates and other correspondence. Recent examples have included invoices, bills, transfer forms, guarantees, endorsements, and confirmations of stock and investment purchases. In some cases, recipients were asked to complete fraudulent forms and return them by fax or e-mail. In other cases, recipients were asked to remit funds via check or wire transfer service.

The FDIC rarely sends unsolicited bills or other similar documents to financial institutions, businesses and consumers. In particular, the FDIC does not send unsolicited correspondence asking for sensitive personal information, including bank account information. Anyone receiving such correspondence should contact the FDIC immediately by calling the Corporation's toll-free telephone number at 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342) or by e-mailing to alert@fdic.gov. Do not use contact information listed for the FDIC in the correspondence because it is likely to be falsified. Questions can also be submitted to the FDIC using an online form at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Distribution: All FDIC-Insured Institutions

Special Alerts

Commerce Bank, Geneva, Minnesota, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit money orders bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 096016765, which is an invalid routing number, and are dissimilar to authentic money orders. The counterfeit items display "MONEY ORDER" and "VOID AFTER 90 DAYS," centered below the written dollar amount line. The bank's name and an incorrect address ("7650 EDINBOROUGH, MINNEAPOLIS , MN 55401 ") appear in the top-left corner. The bank's name and an unassociated logo appear near the top center.

Authentic money orders display the routing number 091912576, which is assigned to Commerce Bank. "BANK MONEY ORDER" is displayed inside a rectangle within the top border. The bank name and two branch locations - " GENEVA , MN * EDINA , MN " - appear in the lower-left corner. Authentic money orders also display a wide ornate left border.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic money order (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Amy Grove
Branch Manager
Commerce Bank
7650 Edinborough Way, Suite 150
Edina, Minneapolis 55435
Telephone: (952) 841-9748
Fax: (952) 841-9755
E-mail: agrove@commercebankmn.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Brickyard Bank, Lincolnwood, Illinois, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 071002422, which is assigned to Brickyard Bank, but are markedly dissimilar to authentic cashier's checks. The counterfeit items display the following security statement embedded within the dark top border: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A COLORED BACKGROUND AND MICROPRINTING. THE REVERSE SIDE INCLUDES AN ARTIFICIAL WATERMARK." The words "Cashier's Check," "Date" and "Branch" appear on the upper-right side. The bank's name and "bb" logo appear inside a shaded rectangle in the upper-left corner. The bank name, address and a telephone number ("1-888-811-1041"), which is not associated with the bank, appear to the right of the logo. The items display a "MEMO" line in the lower-left corner.

Authentic checks have ornate borders and display "CASHIER'S CHECK" in the lower-left corner. The bank's name, "bb" logo, address and telephone number, "(847) 679-2265," are displayed in the top center. The following security statement is displayed directly below the printed dollar amount line: "THIS DOCUMENT HAS A MICRO-PRINT SIGNATURE LINE, WATERMARK AND A THERMOCHROMIC ICON; ABSENCE OF THESE FEATURES WILL INDICATE A COPY." An indemnity bond statement appears above the signature area. A padlock icon and the statements "SECURITY FEATURES INCLUDED. DETAILS ON BACK" appear to the right of "DOLLARS" at the right end of the printed dollar amount line.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Patricia S. Godinez
Senior Vice President and Cashier
Brickyard Bank
6676 North Lincoln Avenue
Lincolnwood, Illinois 60712
Telephone: (847) 679-2265
Fax: (847) 679-9077
E-mail: pgodinez@brickyardbank.net

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Chester Bancorp, Inc., Chester, Illinois, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the names Chester National Bank, Chester , Illinois , and Chester National Bank of Missouri , Perryville , Missouri , are in circulation. These items are reportedly associated with a mystery shopping scam originating in Canada .

The counterfeit items display the routing numbers 281970881 or 081907135, which are assigned to Chester National Bank, Chester , Illinois . The counterfeit items are similar to authentic official checks but display security feature descriptions within the top and bottom borders. The words "CASHIER'S CHECK" and "DRAWER: CHESTER NATIONAL BANK" appear in the upper-right corner. The bank's logo, name (printed twice), city, state and a telephone number, which is not associated with the bank, are displayed in the upper-left corner. Two signature lines, both preceded by "PER," are in the lower-right corner. A padlock icon is embedded within the right border. "REMITTER" is printed in the lower-left corner. The items have a "VOID" background when copied.

Neither Chester National Bank nor Chester National Bank of Missouri issue cashier's checks; however, both banks issue official checks. Both of the banks' official checks are identical except for the bank names and routing numbers. Authentic checks display an indemnity bond "NOTICE TO CUSTOMER" and the word "REMITTER" in the upper-left corner. "OFFICIAL CHECK" is printed near the lower-left corner. The bank's logo, name, and address are in the top center. The bank's logo is also displayed as a watermark in the center.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Mary Jo Homan
Treasurer and Vice President
Chester National Bank
1112 State Street
P. O. Box 327
Chester, Illinois 62233
Telephone: (618) 826-5038
Fax: (618) 826-5727
E-mail: mjh@chesternationalbank.com

To report this scam or any other scam based in or mailed from Canada , please contact Phonebusters, which is a joint partnership between the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Phonebusters is interested in receiving copies of scam letters, particularly those involving Canadian mailing addresses or telephone numbers. Records relating to the payment of advance fees should also be forwarded to Phonebusters. This information is used to assist in the strategic targeting of would-be fraudsters. Scam letters should be forwarded to the Phonebusters National Call Center (PNCC) as follows:

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

Bank of Greeleyville, Greeleyville, South Carolina, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit cashier's checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation.

The counterfeit items display the routing number 053207119, which is assigned to Bank of Greeleyville, but are markedly dissimilar to authentic cashier's checks. The counterfeit items display a security feature statement embedded within the bottom border. The words "CASHIER'S CHECK" appear in the upper-left corner and below the bank's logo, name (printed twice), city, state, and a telephone number, which is not associated with the bank. An "authorized signature" line and a "COUNTERSIGNER" line, both preceded by the word "PER," are in the lower-right corner. The numerical dollar amount is printed inside a rectangle in the center with the words "DOLLARS" and "CENTS" printed above the rectangle. The word "REMITTER" is displayed in the lower-left corner.

Authentic checks display the words "CASHIER'S CHECK" and an indemnity bond statement in the lower-left corner. The bank's logo and name are centered at the top. A padlock icon and a vertically printed security feature statement are embedded within the right border. "BANK OF GREELEYVILLE" and "AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE" are printed above the signature line in the lower- right corner. The word "REMITTER" is displayed near the upper-left corner.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Diane W. Nexsen
Vice President
Bank of Greeleyville
P.O. Box 278
Greeley, South Carolina 29056
Telephone: (843) 426-2161
Fax: (843) 426-4357
E-mail: dnexsen@bog1.com

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Special Alerts

First Community Bank, National Association, Lexington, South Carolina, has contacted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to report that counterfeit checks bearing the institution's name are in circulation. The counterfeit items are reportedly associated with a mystery shopper scam originating in Canada .

The counterfeit items display the routing number 061119558, which is assigned to Atlantic Southern Bank, Macon , Georgia , and are markedly dissimilar to authentic official checks. The counterfeit items display a security feature statement within the top and bottom borders. The bank's logo, name, city, state and a telephone number ("1-888-333-4883"), which is not associated with the bank, appear near the upper-left corner. A padlock icon appears within the right border. Two signature lines are displayed in the lower-right corner. The word "Remitter" appears near the lower-left corner. The counterfeit items are blue in color.

Authentic official checks display the routing number 053202208, which is assigned to First Community Bank, National Association. The words "OFFICIAL CHECK" appear in the top center. The numerical dollar amount is printed inside a box near the upper-right corner. Authentic checks are green in color and have leaf-designed borders. There is one signature line in the lower-right corner and an undesignated line adjacent in the lower-left corner.

Copies of a counterfeit item and an authentic check (VOID) are attached for your review. Be aware that the appearance of counterfeit items can be modified and that additional variations may be presented.

Any information you have concerning this matter should be brought to the attention of:

Debbie Estes
Assistant Vice-President
First Community Bank, National Association
P.O. Box 64
Lexington, South Carolina 29071
Telephone: (803) 951-0534
Fax: (803) 951-1632
E-mail: destes@firstcommunitysc.com

To report this scam or any other scam based in or mailed from Canada , please contact Phonebusters, which is a joint partnership between the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Phonebusters is interested in receiving copies of scam letters, particularly those involving Canadian mailing addresses or telephone numbers. Records relating to the payment of advance fees should also be forwarded to Phonebusters. This information is used to assist in the strategic targeting of would-be fraudsters. Scam letters should be forwarded to the Phonebusters National Call Center (PNCC) as follows:

Information about counterfeit items, cyber-fraud incidents and other fraudulent activity may be forwarded to the FDIC's Cyber-Fraud and Financial Crimes Section, 550 17th Street, N.W., Room F-4004, Washington, D.C. 20429, or transmitted electronically to alert@fdic.gov. Questions related to federal deposit insurance or consumer issues should be submitted to the FDIC using an online form that can be accessed at http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp.

For your reference, FDIC Special Alerts may be accessed from the FDIC's website at www.fdic.gov/news/news/SpecialAlert/2007/index.html. To learn how to automatically receive FDIC Special Alerts through e-mail, please visit www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html.

Attachment (not available electronically)

NOTE: As a security precaution, the FDIC does not post to its Web site electronic images of fraudulent items or authentic checks that have been counterfeited. This is to avoid attempts by others to use these instruments to facilitate additional fraud. Financial institutions can view images of the fraudulent items and authentic checks (marked as VOID) using the FDIC's free, secure Web site, FDICconnect. (See more information about FDICconnect at http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2006/fil06032.html.) Printed copies of each Special Alert and its attachment(s) may also be obtained from the FDIC's Public Information Center (telephone: 1-877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200; fax: 703-562-2296; or e-mail: publicinfo@fdic.gov).

Distribution: FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)