The following incidents were reported to University Police Feb. 8-14. Readers with information that could assist in investigating these incidents are urged to call 935-5555. This information is provided as a public service to promote safety awareness and is available on the University Police Web site at police.wustl.edu.
Fraud alert:
University Police has recently noted several incidents where members of the campus community or others have lost money due to check fraud (particularly in transactions over the Internet or through the mail).
This typically occurs when the victim is sent a check or money order for an amount larger than the cost of the item or service being purchased or leased. The victim is asked to cash or deposit the check or money order and return the balance of the funds via Western Union or some other service. It is not until after the money has been forwarded that the victim learns that the original check or money order was fraudulent.
If you have any questions about a suspicious transaction or request, contact your bank, local police department or the Washington University Police Department.
Remember: If you are in doubt about a transaction, do not complete it.
University Police also responded to three reports of larceny, two reports of lost article and auto accident and one report of damaged property.