Fake Check Scams
A 'buyer' or 'employer' sends you a check for more than expected and asks you to wire back the difference. The check eventually bounces — usually after you've sent real money from your own account.
How it worksThe anatomy of the scam
Every case follows roughly the same playbook. Recognize the pattern, stop it early.
1. The setup
You're hired as a mystery shopper, sell something online, or agree to receive an 'advance' from a new employer.
2. The oversized check
It arrives for more than you expected. The sender apologizes and asks you to wire back the difference.
3. The bank's 'funds available'
Your bank credits the check provisionally — that's not the same as the check clearing. It can take weeks.
4. You send the wire
Real money leaves your account.
5. The check bounces
Your bank reverses the credit. You owe the full amount plus fees.
Warning signsRed flags to watch for
If you're seeing two or more of these, assume it's a scam until proven otherwise.
Check for more than agreed
Legitimate payers get the amount right.
Rush to forward funds
'Please wire it today.'
Sender can't explain the overpayment
Vague 'accounting error' excuses.
Protect yourselfDo this. Not that.
✓ Do
Wait until the check has fully cleared — that's weeks, not days. Ask your bank to confirm in writing if needed.
✗ Don't
Never wire back the difference from an overpayment.
✓ Do
Refuse to cash a check that's larger than expected.
✗ Don't
Don't accept 'mystery shopper' gigs that require cashing checks — the real industry doesn't work this way.
RelatedIf this happened to you, also check
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