This week, the FBI arrested a man for stealing at least $100,000 from truckstops with fraudulent EFS TransChecks. Suspects often use a scam that has been around for years. The good news? You can stop it from happening to you.
Example of How This Scam Works
- The customer walks into a truckstop asking to cash an EFS TransCheck or Comdata ComCheck. (The check sometimes has the authorization number already filled in, and other times it is left blank.)
- The customer tells the cashier to expect a phone call from EFS or Comdata. (The customer could have a hard-luck story about why he has no cash or ID.)
- An accomplice calls the cashier, pretending to be an employee of EFS or Comdata. This accomplice verifies the authorization number on the check or provides it to the cashier.
- The cashier cashes the fraudulent check.
- The check thieves often move to another truckstop nearby where they repeat the scam.
What You Should Know
- EFS and Comdata will NEVER call a fuel desk with an authorization, issuer or transaction number. The travel plaza employee must call EFS or Comdata for TransCheck or ComCheck authorizations.
- If you receive such a call, assume it is a scam. Ask for the person’s name and phone number and call the EFS or Comdata dedicated phone line.
- Make sure your cashiers are aware of this scam and have a clear process for what to do if they suspect fraud.
Here are some other sources to help prevent check fraud:
Check Acceptance Tips
Avoiding Cashier's Check Fraud
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