Fake check overpayment scam: كيف يعمل وعلامات التحذير وماذا تفعل
Payment fraud · médio
A stranger sends a check, usually for several thousand dollars and for more than you're owed, and asks you to deposit it and send back the difference by wire, gift card or app. There is always a good story: the buyer is abroad, there are taxes and fees on a prize, or supplies must be bought for a "job".
According to the FTC, fake checks drive prize scams, fake jobs, mystery-shopper offers and classified-ad sales. By the time the bank discovers the check is bad, the scammer already has the money you sent, and the victim is stuck paying the bank back.
Sinais / Signs
- A check from a stranger for more than the agreed amount
- A request to send back the difference
- Repayment by wire, gift card or payment app
- A "mystery shopper" job that starts with a check
- A prize that requires paying fees before you collect
Prevenção / Prevention
- Be wary of any check from a stranger that comes with a request to send money back
- Don't use funds from a newly deposited check to pay anyone
- Talk to your bank about the check before touching the money
- When selling online, get paid in ways you control
- Remember that a legitimate job won't ask you to forward money
O que fazer / What to do
- Notify your bank immediately
- If you sent money, contact the wire service or gift card company
- Keep the check, envelopes and messages
- Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
FAQ
The money shows as available. Does that mean the check is good?
Not necessarily. The FTC explains the bank may find out later that the check is bad, leaving the victim to repay it.
Why would someone pay more than agreed?
Because the goal is for you to send back real money before the fake check is discovered.