TL;DR: A fake check scam involves a scammer sending a victim a fraudulent check, asking them to deposit it and wire back a portion, before the check bounces days later. Never wire money based on funds from a check that hasn't fully cleared — banks are required to make funds available quickly, but that doesn't mean the check is legitimate.
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A fake check scam involves a scammer sending a victim a fraudulent check, asking them to deposit it and wire back a portion, before the check bounces days later.
How Fake Check Scams Works
The scammer overpays for something (a purchase, a job, a prize) with a check for more than the amount owed, then asks the victim to wire back the difference. The check takes days to be flagged as fake, by which point the wired money is gone.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Being asked to deposit a check and immediately wire part of it back, an overpayment with an excuse, and pressure to act before you'd normally verify the check has cleared.
How to Protect Yourself
Never wire money based on funds from a check that hasn't fully cleared — banks are required to make funds available quickly, but that doesn't mean the check is legitimate.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading What Is Fake Debt Collector Scams? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see What Is Formjacking? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fake Check Scams?
A fake check scam involves a scammer sending a victim a fraudulent check, asking them to deposit it and wire back a portion, before the check bounces days later.
How does Fake Check Scams typically work?
The scammer overpays for something (a purchase, a job, a prize) with a check for more than the amount owed, then asks the victim to wire back the difference. The check takes days to be flagged as fake, by which point the wired money is gone.
What are the warning signs of Fake Check Scams?
Being asked to deposit a check and immediately wire part of it back, an overpayment with an excuse, and pressure to act before you'd normally verify the check has cleared.
How can I protect myself from Fake Check Scams?
Never wire money based on funds from a check that hasn't fully cleared — banks are required to make funds available quickly, but that doesn't mean the check is legitimate.
What should I do if I think I’ve encountered Fake Check Scams?
Stop responding immediately, do not click any links or share information, and report it to the appropriate authority. If money or personal information was already shared, act quickly to secure your accounts and report the incident.