Frequently Asked Questions

Can the bank spot a fake check when I deposit?
Unfortunately, these checks can look real enough to fool even a bank teller. They can appear to be cashiers checks or checks from legitimate business accounts (the companies' names used in the scams may even be real, but the checks are written without their knowledge or permission). Because it can take weeks to discover a forged check, and because the bank must make deposited funds available quickly (1-11 days), according to federal law, you would be able to withdraw that money right away. However, this availability of funds does not guarantee that the check was good.

Is the customer responsible for the funds lost?
Because you, and not the bank, are in the position to judge the trustworthiness of the person who wrote the check, it is your responsibility to determine whether or not the check should be good. Accordingly, you owe the bank any money you withdrew that would have been covered by the check. The bank could take the money owed to them from your accounts or take legal action against you for the amount. If it appears that the victim was involved in the scam and knew that the check was counterfeit, charges could be brought against that victim.

How do I get caught in a fake check scam?
People check advertisements (whether in the newspaper or online) for people selling items and looking for jobs and contact these people. They may also contact people randomly, hoping to find someone who will believe their stories.

How do I avoid falling for a fake check scam?
If someone who gives you money asks you to wire money back, it is a clear sign that the person is attempting a scam - there is no legitimate reason for such a request. If someone you do not know asks to send you a check, demand that it is a cashiers check for the exact amount, preferably from a bank based in or with a branch in your area. If you suspect that a check is fake, report it. Contact the National Consumers League's National Fraud Information Center, www.fraud.org or (800) 876-7060. The website also contains more detailed tips about fake check scams in the telemarketing and internet fraud sections.