Detective: Money crimes, Internet scams on rise

A Carson City detective who specializes in investigating money crimes is warning the public against falling prey to online con artists.

"I think due to the bad economy we have had a (resurgence) of some of the Internet crimes," said Detective Bob Motamenpour. "The old Nigerian Scam - which would mail you a legitimate looking check asking you to deposit it in your bank account or cash it at a casino then keep some for yourself and wire transfer the rest to an unknown place - is starting up again."

Motamenpour said people should be aware that if they cash a bogus check, they could be charged with a felony.

"The ones who received the cash ... will ultimately be responsible to pay it back when the item is returned within a week or a month," he said.

He said it's a good idea for people to frequently check their bank balances and statements for any unfamiliar charges and to immediately report any discrepancies to their bank.

"Banks may refuse to reimburse customers if the matter is not reported within a month," he said.

Also, he said, con men are posting phony jobs. When someone inquires about it, the con men send a check to people before any work has been done, with the intention of having the person cash the check and send back a money order through Western Union or any other wire transfer service. In all cases such as these the checks are stolen or fictitious.

"These crimes are pretty much all non-solvable and folks will be responsible for the losses, as well as be held responsible by the law," he said.

Questions should be directed to Motamenpour at 887-2020, ext. 41406.