Money And Payments
Fake check scam
A scam using a bad check that appears to clear.
What it means
A scammer sends a fake or stolen check, asks you to send some money back, and the bank later reverses the deposit.
Example
A fake employer sends a check for equipment and tells you to pay a vendor from the extra amount.
Warning signs
- You receive more money than expected.
- You are asked to send money back quickly.
- The sender says the bank has already cleared it.
- The story involves equipment, prizes, rent, or overpayment.
Safer next steps
- Wait for your bank to confirm the check is fully valid.
- Do not send money back from a check deposit.
- Contact your bank directly if you are unsure.
- Report the sender to the platform or authorities.