In a fake check scam, an unknown individual asks you to deposit a check. The amount is usually more than owed to you, and sometimes exceeds several thousand dollars. You are then instructed to send a portion of the money back to them or another person.

Scammers always provide a convincing explanation for why you can’t keep all the money. They may claim it’s for taxes or fees, purchasing job supplies, returning an overpayment, or other reasons. However, this is a scam. Check out the video for some examples of check scams.

• Do not use money from a check to send gift cards, money orders, cryptocurrency, or to wire money to anyone who requests it. Scammers often ask for gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, and once you’ve sent the money, it’s nearly impossible to recover.
• Reject offers that require payment for a prize. Legitimate prizes should not require payment.
• Never accept a check for more than the selling price, as it is likely a scam.

For additional information visit the FTC’s website at: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-report-fake-check-scams