Fraudulent Checks Scam

If you receive a check that you were not expecting, it may be part of a fake check scam. Counterfeit checks can come in many forms, and scammers are very sneaky at making counterfeit checks look legitimate.

If you are on the receiving end of a counterfeit check, whoever sent it will usually ask you to deposit it and send some of the money back to them or an accomplice. Your best defense against check scams is to call the issuing financial institution or stop by any American 1 Credit Union location and request they verify the check.

Here are a couple of tips on how to avoid being part of a fake check scam:

• Never use money from a check to send gift cards, money orders, or wire money to a stranger or someone you just met. If you complete this task, it's the same as giving cash, and it won't be easy to get those funds returned.
• Toss offers that ask you to pay for a prize.

You can read more about fake check scams on the Federal Trade Commission website. If you believe you have received a fraudulent check or have fallen victim to a scam like this, report it to the police and your financial institution immediately.

 

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