Auguest 4 2009
Crystal Alerts Consumers of Illegal Check Scam
Crystal Cruises issued an alert that fraudulent checks that look like its corporate checks are being issued throughout the U.S. either randomly via mail or through other means including popular Internet websites featuring job postings, mystery shopper programs, sweepstakes and payment for items sold. Crystal said it does not believe that its customer personal information was used to generate these checks. “These checks look identical to, but are not, Crystal Cruises’ corporate checks,” the cruise line said. “These are not legitimate checks, and this is not a Crystal Cruises’ promotion. This is an illegal check scam.”
Crystal said the perpetrators advise the recipient to cash the alleged Crystal check, and that they explain the check is from a “financial sponsor” to try and assure the recipient that it is legitimate. The perpetrators then ask the recipient to deposit or send the same amount of money to a third party via Western Union under the guise of a secret shopper program. Crystal said at this time it does not have definitive information as to where the money is being sent. Crystal said those who have received one of these checks should not cash or deposit it as they did not originate with Crystal Cruises. Crystal has notified and is working with the appropriate authorities to investigate this matter. In order to provide the authorities with the additional information necessary to apprehend and prosecute the criminals behind this fraud, Crystal asks that those who do receive a check, or have any information regarding this scam, to email the line at fraudalert@crystalcruises.com, fax to 310-277-8150 or call 310-785-9300 and ask to speak to the line’s fraud alert department. For more information, visit www.crystalcruises.com.
