How to Tell if a Check is Fake

Fake check scams are rising quickly, mainly because technology makes it easier to produce them. Many fake checks are good enough that even an experienced banker may not be able to tell one from a real one. If you get a check from someone or some place you don't know, take extra care to avoid being scammed out of your money--or worse. Read on to learn how to tell if a check is fake.

Instructions

Warning Signs

1. Be wary of anyone claiming to send money from another country. The basic scam here is the person will say he'll have someone in America send you a check because it's too difficult to send the money from his country.

2. Avoid taking checks from anyone wanting you to wire them money back. This usually involves an overpayment from someone other than the buyer and work-at-home jobs that involve processing "client" checks or where the employer claims to have overpaid you.

3. Insist on a cashier's check for the exact amount from a local bank or national one with a local branch if you can. This gives you an easy way to verify the check.

Validating the Check

1. Get a means of verifying the identity of who wrote the check. Many businesses do this by getting a photo ID number and phone number. This may not work if you're not meeting the buyer in person.

2. Verify that the check is from a valid account by contacting the bank it's from. Look up a local number in the phone book instead of using any number listed on the check.

3. Verify any business that a check comes from. Contact the Better Business Bureau, the Attorney General's office or your local State Department.

4. Contact the business directly to have them verify it. A check scam may involve the use of checks stolen from a legitimate business.

Tips & Warnings

• Being able to withdraw money after depositing a check does not prove it is good. Banks are required by law to provide deposited funds in a few days, and it can take weeks to tell a fake check.

• Remember that you are responsible for all checks you deposit, because you had the first chance to detect it. Banks could still hold you accountable for the money, and authorities might accuse you of being part of the scam.