Fraud doesn’t always come with flashing warning signs – sometimes it walks right through the front door disguised as a perfectly normal check. What seemed like a routine request quickly unraveled into a situation straight out of a common scam playbook. Thanks to thoughtful questions and clear communication, a costly mistake was stopped before it could happen. Here’s how it unfolded.
What brought the customer into the branch?
Krystal: The customer came into the branch requesting to cash a check he had received.
What did you notice about the check upon review?
Krystal: I observed that the check appeared to be a printed copy of a blurry image of a check rather than an original check. It featured a cursive-style font, with a separate print-style font overlaid on the legal lines. Additionally, no bank name or bank logo was printed on the check.
What did the customer say about where the check came from and why he received it?
Krystal: The customer stated that they are a freelance plumber and was contacted through Facebook Messenger by an individual they did not know regarding plumbing work. The check was intended to pay for tools and supplies needed to install toilets.
Had the customer ever met or spoken directly with the individual?
Krystal: No. The customer confirmed they had never met or spoken with the individual, and all communication occurred through Facebook Messenger.
Did the customer have any knowledge of the job site or materials needed?
Krystal: The customer stated that he had not seen the job site, either in person or through photos. He explained that the individual had already provided an estimated dollar amount for materials and instructed him to purchase the listed items, arrive on site with the supplies, and complete the job.
How did the customer receive the check since communication was only through Facebook Messenger?
Krystal: The customer explained that the individual emailed him an image of the check and instructed him to print it, bring it to the bank to cash it, and use the funds to purchase the supplies. He stated that the check image was the only item sent via email, with all other communication remaining on Facebook Messenger.
What action did you take after reviewing the check and circumstances?
Krystal: Based on the appearance of the check and the surrounding circumstances, I informed the customer that the check may not be legitimate.
How did the customer respond, and what explanation was provided?
Krystal: The customer asked how the situation could be considered a scam. It was explained that scams commonly involve sending fraudulent checks and then requesting repayment of funds.
What was the final outcome?
Krystal: After reviewing the details, the customer acknowledged the concerns and stated he realized he may have almost fallen victim to a scam. The check was not legitimate, and the customer declined to proceed after understanding the potential risk.
Everyday Tips to Follow to Protect Yourself for Check Scams
Be cautious of checks that are sent digitally – Banks generally do not accept checks that are emailed as images and printed at home. If someone asks you to print a check and cash it, that’s a major red flag.
Know who you are doing business with – If you’ve never met, spoken to, or verified the person sending you money, especially if communication only happens through social media or messaging apps, pause and investigate further.
Watch for unusual check details – Be wary of checks that:
- Look blurry or poorly printed
- Are missing a bank name or logo
- Use multiple fonts or inconsistent formatting
These can be signs that it is not legitimate.
Don’t accept money upfront for jobs you haven’t seen – Scammers often rush people, encourage them to cash checks immediately and spend or send the funds. Taking time to ask questions can prevent costly mistakes.
Understand how fake check scams work – This common scam involves receiving a fraudulent check, being asked to use or send some of the money and then being responsible when the check later bounces. If it sounds overly complicated, that’s often intentional.
Trust your instincts – If something feels “off”, it probably is. Asking questions and slowing down is not rude, it’s smart.
Ask your banker before proceeding – If something doesn’t feel right, talk to a bank employee before cashing or depositing the check. A quick conversation can save you from financial loss!