A former bank employee is in hot water after allegedly selling stolen check images online, causing a significant financial loss for her employer.
Former Employee Faces Sanctions
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is banning Cricel Santamaria, a former Webster Bank employee, from the banking industry. Santamaria, who worked as a client service representative at the Stamford, Connecticut branch, is accused of stealing 62 check images from the bank’s system between October 2021 and April 2022. She then allegedly sold these images online.
The Fallout
Thirteen customers reported fraudulent activity on their accounts shortly after their checks appeared for sale online. The total reported fraud amounted to $237,374, resulting in a $108,000 loss for Webster Bank. The OCC stated that Santamaria’s actions were unsafe, caused significant losses, and demonstrated dishonesty and disregard for the bank’s well-being.
Consequences and Future Actions
Santamaria has agreed to the OCC’s order without admitting guilt. However, the Department of Justice (DOJ) still has the option to pursue further legal action against her. Webster Bank, a large commercial bank with over $70 billion in assets, is the victim in this case.