Wayzata Police See Spike in Counterfeit American Express Gift Checks

Over the past several days, businesses in and around the Wayzata area have been victims of counterfeit “American Express Gift Checks.”  The checks are in the amount of $100. 

Wayzata police are aware of two such checks, but information from local banks indicate more have been passed. Instructions for verifying the authenticity of these types of checks are printed clearly on the back of each check and are as follows:

1. Watch customer countersign check and compare to original signature
2. View Centurion watermark in white area and “AMEX” security thread in middle area while holding check to light.
3. View holographic foil at various angles to see image and color changes between Centurion, denomination and American Express logos.

Recipients of one of these checks should not accept the check and immediately notify the Wayzata Police Department by dialing 9-1-1. Make note of the subject’s physical description as well as any vehicle they may be associated with. 

"As always, if you encounter any suspicious activity, report it to your local police," Wayzata Police Chief Mike Risvold wrote in a statement Thursday morning. "If you see something, say something!"

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