In a strongly worded warning to consumers, Toyota late Wednesday said that scam artists are “using Toyota’s name” in a couple of schemes, including one that involves a forged Toyota check.

“Here’s more proof that somebody out there wants whatever it is that you have,” wrote Jon F. Thompson, editor of Toyota’s Open Road blog. “It’s come to our attention that there have been several efforts to scam people out of financial information through the use of correspondence on a falsified Toyota letterhead and accompanied by a forged Toyota check.”

He warns consumers who receive the fraudulent letters that they should “not respond and do not attempt to cash any check that might accompany your letter.”

Thompson said federal law enforcement officials are investigating the scams.

He noted that the scams are variations on a similar theme. One tries to get personal or financial information from a recipient. “This information then can be used for identity theft or to raid the individual’s bank account,” Thompson wrote.

Another solicits the recipient’s participation in a mystery-shopper program. “In two others, the letter advises that the individual has won a lottery involving a large sum of cash and/or a Toyota vehicle,” he said.

What this means to you: Steer clear of these scams. As Toyota points out, “If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.” — Anita Lienert, Correspondent

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