U.S. Bank fraudulently attached to overseas Debit Card
FROM STAFF REPORTS Gulf Breeze News news@gulfbreezenews.com

Consumers are advised to review online purchases with caution.

On Tuesday, July 24, the office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) issued an alert about fraudulent activity that could impact anyone using the internet. A3Card, an independent debit card issuer in association with Caribbean Software LTD in the commonwealth of the Dominica in the Caribbean, was using the good name of the 4-Star Cumberland Valley National Bank & Trust Company, East Bernstadt, KY on its web site to five the appearance that the U.S. bank was behind the card.

It was not.

And while the bank's name has now been removed from the web site, it is not yet clear how many consumers were duped into thinking they were applying for a card at a reputable bank.

To purchase a debit card, it is safe to assume the purchaser cannot acquire a card without paying for it (some reasons include: bad credit, no credit, undocumented residents, etc.).

This particular debit card costs $89.95 plus shipping and handling; plus a $4.95 processing fee, per deposit plus anywhere from 1.75 percent of the amount deposited; plus $3.45 to use an ATM; plus $0.95 for a decline at either an ATM or point of sale; plus $1.45 for an ATM inquiry; plus $2.95 for a POS transaction; not to mention the $4.95 monthly maintenance.

Any information questions pertaining to this situation may be directed to Brenda Novell, Electronic Services Officer, Cumberland Valley National Bank & Trust Company, PO Box 709, London, KY 40743 or by telephone at (606) 878- 7010.

Additional information concerning this matter that you believe should be brought to the attention of the OCC may be forwarded to occalertresponses@ occ.treas.gov; or visit them online at: http://www.occ.treas.gov

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) charters, regulates, and supervises all national banks. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the OCC has four district offices plus an office in London to supervise the international activities of national banks.

The OCC is headed by the Comptroller , who is appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a five-year term.