Officials issue warning about Internet fraud and fake money orders

There's a word of warning out about a fraud scheme sweeping across the Internet. It could cost you hundreds of dollars, and land you in federal prison. <br/><br/>The scam involves counterfeit US

Friday, December 10th 2004, 5:55 am

By: News On 6

There's a word of warning out about a fraud scheme sweeping across the Internet. It could cost you hundreds of dollars, and land you in federal prison.

The scam involves counterfeit US post office money orders. Authorities say they've found victims in Claremore, Checotah and Broken Bow.

One victim says he received an email from a girl in Nigeria, saying her father was sick and she needed to raise money to help him. She said she had money orders that could only be cashed in the US. After receiving the money orders in the mail, he became suspicious and had them checked out. Turns out, they were fakes.

To be sure a money order is real, check for the Ben Franklin watermark on the left hand side[pictured].

Authorities say don't respond to unsolicited emails to cash money orders. Also, don't apply for loans in pop up ads. They often send you the money via counterfeit money orders.

One final warning, if you knowingly cash a fake money order, it's a federal crime.