Fake Check Scam: Why a Cleared Check Can Still Bounce Weeks Later
A check can 'clear' and still turn out to be fake. Learn how fake check scams work (overpayment, mystery shopper, job and sweepstakes) and why you should never send money back.
The FTC says fake check scams hit young adults especially hard. The core trick is always the same: someone sends you a check and asks you to send part of the money somewhere else.
Search the company or person who sent the check
Common versions
- Overpayment — a buyer pays more than your asking price and asks for the extra back.
- Mystery shopper — you deposit a check, buy gift cards to "evaluate" a store and send the codes.
- Work-from-home job — your "employer" sends a check to buy equipment from their "vendor".
- Sweepstakes or lottery — you "won" and must pay taxes or fees from the check.
- Caregiver or personal assistant — a stranger online hires you and sends checks for errands.
Why a cleared check isn't safe
Federal rules make banks give you access to deposited money fast, often in one or two business days. Finding out a check is counterfeit can take weeks. When it bounces, the bank takes the full amount back — and the money you sent is gone.
Protect yourself
- Never accept a check for more than you're owed.
- Never send gift cards, crypto or wires after depositing a check from someone you don't know.
- Call the bank the check is drawn on using a number you find yourself.
Report the sender here and at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Related: fake job offers.
Frequently asked questions
If my bank made the money available, is the check real?
No. US banks must make deposited funds available within days, but discovering a fake check can take weeks. When it bounces, you owe the full amount back.
What are signs of a fake check scam?
You're paid more than expected and asked to send back the difference, or told to buy gift cards, crypto, or wire money to someone else after depositing.
What should I do if I deposited a fake check?
Stop sending any money, tell your bank immediately, and report it to reportfraud.ftc.gov and the US Postal Inspection Service if it came by mail.