Attorney General Larry Long Warns Local Businesses of Cashier Check Scam 

PIERRE, S.D.- Attorney General Larry Long today warned South Dakotans again to be cautious of cashier check scams that continue to plague the state. 

Reports from law enforcement and local businesses indicate that hunting guides, resorts and outfitters are the new targets of this ongoing scam. One example, a local resort owner booked a one day fishing trip for a couple from Canada. When he booked the trip the couple wanted to know the total price of the trip, including airline tickets. The couple then sent a check for $3485 and the business owner cashed it upon receipt. He then received a phone call to tell him that they booked the flights on their own and asked him to wire back the money for the flights. He wired them $3000 to reimburse for their flights. The resort owner is now out $3000.

"Just beware of anyone offering to send a certified or cashier's check from which you are to wire money back and keep the rest," said Long. "The hunting and fishing industry is big business in the state of South Dakota and these scam artists have figured out a clever way to tap into this revenue." 

If you have been a victim of this scam or need additional information contact the Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or email at consumerhelp@state.sd.us.

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