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Check This Out: Fake Check Scams

Check This Out: Fake Check Scams

Security / Fake Check Scams

Any written request, with no context, asking for money in exchange for a check or money order is likely a scam. The most important point to remember is that there is no legitimate reason any of these situations would require your response. A good rule of thumb: If you’re unsure, don’t send anything. It’s better to be safe than lose your money for good. 

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fake check scams come in many forms, but they always include someone giving you a realistic 

check or money order and asking you to wire money elsewhere: potentially, even to a place or person you recognize.

After sending legitimate money, you try to deposit or cash the check or money order only to determine it’s counterfeit. You end up losing the money you sent and possibly owing the bank or credit union money from the fraudulent transaction. And, you could even be charged with check fraud, as the victim. 

Be on High Alert if You Receive:

  • A notice from the government or a foundation stating you’re the recipient of grant money and that a processing fee is due back.
  • An unknown person sends you a check from a foreign business deal and promises to send you the rest of the profits if you pay for the legal fee upfront.
  • Someone contacts you online and asks you to help cash a check or money order.
  • You’re promised a lucrative career as a secret shopper, but only if you send additional money as part of your job.
  • You receive a check for something you’re selling online, but it’s for a much higher value than the item is worth. The sender asks you to send the remaining money somewhere else.