Subscribe
85°
Check Fraud Warning: How Scammers Use Fake Payments
A check that looks like free money can quickly turn into a costly trap.
Fake check scams often begin with an unexpected payment tied to a prize, mystery shopping job, online sale, personal assistant offer, or other pitch, according to the Better Business Bureau.
The hook is simple: scammers send a check, tell the recipient to deposit it, then ask for money to be sent back through a wire transfer, gift card, money order, or cryptocurrency.
The check may appear to clear at first. That does not mean it is real.
The Federal Trade Commission says banks must make deposited funds available quick…