Scam category
Check and money order scams
Check and money order scams exploit the delay between when a bank makes funds available and when a check actually clears. Scammers send a check that looks real, the victim deposits it, and the bank temporarily shows the funds. The scammer then asks for a portion back via wire or gift card. Days later, the check bounces and the victim owes the full amount.
Category activity
“check scam”
↑ 34%Watch for
- Someone sends you a check for more than the agreed amount and asks you to wire back the difference.
- The check arrives from a party you have never met in person or verified independently.
- You are pressured to send money back before the check has fully cleared, which takes at least two weeks.
Common searches
fake check overpayment scam
A buyer sends a check for more than the agreed price and asks the seller to wire back the difference before the check bounces.
Never accept a check for more than the selling price.
Sellers
U.S.
mystery shopper check scam
Victims receive an unsolicited check with instructions to deposit it and evaluate a wire transfer service by sending money back.
Never deposit unsolicited checks from unknown senders.
Job seekers
U.S.
cashier's check fraud
Scammers produce convincing counterfeit cashier's checks that initially pass bank verification but are later returned as fraudulent.
Call the issuing bank directly using a number from their official website to verify any cashier's check.
Sellers
U.S.
counterfeit money order scam
Fraudsters create fake money orders that closely resemble genuine USPS or Western Union instruments but are ultimately worthless.
Verify money orders by calling the issuer directly — USPS at 1-866-459-7822 for postal money orders.
Sellers
U.S.
check washing scam
Criminals steal mail containing checks, use chemicals to erase the payee and amount, then rewrite them for larger sums to different recipients.
Use gel pens or security ink when writing checks, as they are resistant to chemical washing.
Small business owners
U.S.
payroll check scam
Scammers posing as employers send fake payroll checks to new hires, then request the employee return a portion for equipment or supplies.
Research any new employer through your state's business registration database before accepting payment.
Job seekers
U.S.
stimulus check fraud
Scammers impersonate government agencies and claim victims must pay a fee or verify personal information to receive a stimulus payment.
Remember that the IRS will never call, text, or email to ask for personal information or payment.
Sellers
U.S.
tax refund check scam
Fraudsters file fake tax returns using stolen personal information to intercept refund checks or direct deposits.
File your tax return as early as possible each year to reduce the window for fraud.
Job seekers
U.S.
rental deposit check scam
A fake landlord sends a check for more than the deposit, then asks the prospective tenant to wire back the excess before the check bounces.
Never accept a check for more than the agreed amount in any rental transaction.
Renters
U.S.
prize check advance fee scam
Victims receive a check along with a letter claiming they won a prize but must pay taxes or fees upfront to claim their winnings.
Remember that legitimate sweepstakes never require upfront payment to claim a prize.
Sellers
U.S.
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