Provided by the Bucks County Department of Consumer Protection:
Q. I was in the process of selling some of my jewelry on Craig’s List. A man who was interested in buying a piece from me contacted me. We agreed upon a price including shipping, bringing the total price to $450. He sent me a bank check but it was written in the amount of $2,200 and not the $450 that we agreed upon. Soon after I received his check, he contacted me stating that he “accidentally” sent too much and asked me to send him the difference. I knew this was a red flag, as I have heard of these types of scams, but the check looks real. I assume it’s a scam and actually would like to know what to do with the check and who to report the incident to? – D.I., Holland
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A. Looking at the check, you would be inclined to think it was real. You are definitely correct in the fact that it is a scam, and after reviewing everything you stated there were several red flags. First it is unlikely for people to send more money than necessary. Secondly, the buyer informed you that he is from New York state but the bank check is from a bank in the state of Tennessee. Bucks County consumer protection staff called the bank’s security division and they were aware of the problem and an internal investigation was in process. Check scams are almost commonplace today, and the variations really never seem to end. Some fake checks look so real that bank tellers can be fooled. The scammers use high quality printers and scanners to make the checks look perfect. Many have authentic looking watermarks and are printed with names and addresses of legitimate financial institutions. Many of them also have real account and routing numbers on them. We have seen these fakes come in many forms, from cashier’s checks and money orders to corporate and personal checks. The bottom line is protect yourself. If you cash a counterfeit check the bank will hold you responsible for the funds. It is always best to only accept checks from people and businesses you know and trust. If you do receive a check for a transaction online we suggest that you proceed with caution. Check with your bank to confirm its validity; if they confirm it is fake, contact the United States Postal Inspector. They investigate mail and wire fraud. Residents who are the recipient of such scams should contact their local post office for the Postal Inspector’s address and number.
For additional tips and brochures on many consumers related issues please visit us at http://www.buckscounty.org/government/CommunityServices/ConsumerProtection/ConsumerTips
