These days, check fraud might sound like an old-school scam, but as Stephen King said in The Colorado Kid: “Sooner or later, everything old is new again.” Many assume these scams only target older adults. The truth is: young people are being hit hard, especially via social media, online job ads, and text or messaging platforms.

At Peoples Bank & Trust, we want you to be informed and protected. Here’s what you need to know about fake check scams, how they often work, and simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.

What Is a Fake Check Scam?

A fake check scam typically starts when someone you don’t know sends you a check and asks you to deposit it. Then they tell you to send part of the money back or pay someone else. The check might look real at first. But once your bank discovers it’s counterfeit, you are responsible for paying back whatever you already withdrew or sent.

How These Scams Are Hitting Young Adults More

These days, scammers are using creative tricks to reach younger adults. These types of check scams are sometimes called a “baked (or cooked) check” scam, where fraudsters digitally alter stolen checks and recruit young adults to deposit them.

Some common situations:

  • Job offers or gigs you see on Instagram, TikTok, or other social media
  • “Mystery shopping” tasks or online sales where someone overpays you by check
  • Ads or messages offering quick cash, or prizes that need a “processing fee” or “tax” paid first

They rely on urgency (“you only have a few hours”), trust in flashy ads, or convincing storylines. Once you deposit a fake check and send someone else money (or do something else they want), the check bounces. Then you are out the money.

Statistics That Might Surprise You

Good to know:

These numbers show that fake check fraud is not just something you hear about; it’s happening, and it’s hitting real people.

Common Scenarios to Watch Out For

Here are some of the typical ways these scams happen:

  • Mystery shopping gigs where you’re told you’ll get paid by check, then you must send some of it to someone else.
  • Car wrap or advertising “job” offers: you’re sent a check, asked to pay a vendor, then wrap a car, etc.
  • Online sales: someone overpays, asks you to send the extra somewhere else.
  • Prize winnings or contests that require “fees” up front (sometimes through gift cards or payment apps).

Red Flags That Something’s Wrong

Before you deposit a check or act on a request, watch for:

  • The check comes unexpectedly from someone you don’t know.
  • The sender asks you to send money back after you deposit the check.
  • They pressure you to act fast (“do this now or you lose the opportunity”).
  • The job description or offer seems vague or “too good to be true.”
  • Poor grammar, spelling mistakes, or suspicious promotion channels.

If any of these sound familiar, don’t deposit the check. Contact your bank immediately.

Contact Peoples Bank & Trust Today

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Targeted

If you think you’ve received a fake check or have already sent money:

  1. Contact your bank right away to tell them what happened.
  2. Report the fraud to the FTC via ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
  3. Notify local law enforcement.
  4. Keep copies of all messages, checks, and communications.
  5. If possible, contact the sender (if legitimate), but only through verified channels.

Staying Safe: Tips to Protect Yourself

Here are steps you can take (and share with friends/family):

  • If you’re offered a job or gig online, verify it independently (search the company, read reviews).
  • Don’t send money or “refund” part of a check before you’re sure it’s valid.
  • Wait until checks clear fully before using or sending funds from them.
  • Be especially cautious with offers that involve gift cards or payment apps.
  • When in doubt, show the check to your bank or ask someone you trust.

FAQ About Check Fraud

Can I trust a check if the bank gave me the funds already?

Not always. Funds “available” doesn’t mean it’s cleared. If the check turns out to be fake, you’ll still be responsible.

Is this only for older people or those who don’t know about digital stuff?

No. It affects people across age groups. Young adults are frequently targeted, especially via social media.

What kind of checks are often used in scams?

Counterfeit checks, altered checks, or checks from closed or non-existent accounts. Sometimes the fake checks look very real.

What should I do if I accidentally deposited a fake check?

Call your bank immediately. Save all related messages. Report to the FTC. Monitor your accounts. You may need to return funds.

Stay Safe with Peoples Bank & Trust

At Peoples Bank & Trust, your safety matters. If you ever receive a check you weren’t expecting, or someone is pressuring you to send money after a check deposit, call us. We’ll help you verify it before you act.

Check out our Security & Scam Awareness section for more resources.

Need Help? Contact Us Today

Peoples Bank & Trust Co.
Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender
NMLS #407724