Fake Check/ Money Wiring Scam

Always be aware of overpayments, especially gross overpayments. If you receive a much larger check than you were expecting, send it back; otherwise, you may be on the hook for funds used against the amount.

Fake check and money order scams can be hard to peg down as con artists use various stories and situations to steal your money. Often you will receive a check worth far more than what was expected. A scammer will then ask you to deposit the check and wire back the difference saving them the trouble of canceling that check and sending over another. Forged checks often take weeks to be uncovered, and by the time the check bounces, the extra money you thought you had, plus the difference you wired back to the scammer, will be gone.

AI Generated Recommendations

https://player.vimeo.com/video/352068820?h=d9efd91a5f

  • Never deposit a check or money order from someone you don't know and trust. This includes checks from people you meet online, even if they seem legitimate.

  • Be wary of unsolicited offers, especially those that involve large sums of money. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

  • Verify the authenticity of any check or money order before depositing it. Contact your bank or the issuing institution to confirm the validity of the check or money order.

  • Do not wire money to anyone you don't know and trust. Wiring money is irreversible, so once the money is sent, it's gone.

  • If you receive a check or money order that seems suspicious, contact your bank or a financial advisor. They can help you determine if the check or money order is legitimate.

  • Be aware of the risks of online scams and take steps to protect yourself. This includes using strong passwords, avoiding phishing scams, and being cautious about sharing personal information online.

  • Please educate yourself about common scams and how to avoid them. Stay informed about the latest scams by reading articles, watching news reports, and following reputable sources of information.

  • Report any suspicious activity to the authorities. If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, report it to your local law enforcement agency or the Federal Trade Commission.

Recommended Resources

Buy Counterfeit Detection Pens

These pens are designed to detect counterfeit bills. They contain a special ink that reacts with the paper of counterfeit bills, revealing a distinctive mark.

Buy UV Light Detectors

These devices can be used to check for security features on currency, such as watermarks and security threads, which are often difficult to replicate on counterfeit bills.