What are the red flags of a fake check?

How to Spot a Fake Check Scam

Receiving a check out of the blue can feel like a stroke of luck—especially if it’s for thousands of dollars. But beware: scammers often use fake checks to trick people into handing over real money. The red flags are subtle but consistent.

It usually starts with someone you’ve never met—perhaps a buyer, a landlord, or a distant relative claiming to need help. They send you a check, often for more than the agreed amount. They apologize for the “mistake,” but then ask you to deposit the full check and wire part of the money back to them or to a third party. Sounds reasonable? That’s how they lure you in.

What they don’t tell you is that while your bank may make funds available quickly, the check can take days—or even weeks—to fully clear. By the time the bank realizes it’s fake, you’ve already sent off real money. And now, you’re on the hook for the full amount of the counterfeit check.

Another red flag? A compelling story. Maybe they’re overseas, in a hurry, or dealing with an emergency. They pressure you to act fast—no time to double-check. Scammers rely on urgency and emotion to override caution.

Remember: legitimate transactions don’t require you to pay someone else on their behalf. If you’re asked to deposit a check and send money back—especially to a stranger—it’s almost certainly a scam. No matter how official the check looks, if it came from someone you don’t know and involves wiring funds, walk away.

When in doubt, contact your bank directly (not using contact info they provide) and verify the check. Protect your hard-earned money—don’t let a fake check turn into a real financial nightmare.