The Broome County Sheriff’s Office and SUNY Broome Public Safety have received numerous complaints from local financial institutions regarding fraudulent checks and check-cashing schemes.
The involved suspects will sometimes say that they “need a favor” and request help cashing a check, or they will offer the opportunity to “make extra money” if individuals allow them to access their bank account. To enact the scam, the perpetrators access the bank account via the individual’s ATM card and PIN number, ostensibly so they can deposit the check.
Those who give up their account information often never see the checks that are being deposited until they are notified by either the financial institution or the police of criminal activity. Suspects also rarely pay the individuals after receiving account access.
Don’t place yourself at risk!
When you allow someone to use your bank or debit card for fraudulent activities, you’re not only responsible financially for what happens to your bank account. You’re also subjecting yourself to a felony police investigation and may face criminal charges.
SUNY Broome students who are involved in these activities may also face immediate suspension or even expulsion through the Student Conduct system.
At no time should you share your bank account information with anyone.
The investigation into this activity continues. Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff’s Office tip line at (607) 778-1196 or the SUNY Broome Office of Public Safety at (607) 778-5083.
