How do fake check scams work?

You are given a check to deposit, but told the amount is overpaid. The scammer asks you to wire back a portion of the funds to cover taxes, fees or job supplies. The criminal relies on you to send the money back before the bank discovers the check is fraudulent and deducts the full amount from your account.

Additional Resources:

• FDIC Beware of Fake Checks
• FTC How To Spot, Avoid, and Report Fake Check Scams