A fraudster sends a check for more than owed and asks you to refund the difference before the check bounces.
The victim receives a check — often as “equipment funds” for a new remote job — that is larger than expected, and is asked to buy supplies or wire back the excess. Days later the bank discovers the check is counterfeit, reverses the deposit, and the victim is out every dollar they sent.
This works because banks may make funds available before a check truly clears, creating a dangerous window scammers exploit.
Red flags
- You are sent a check before doing any work
- You are asked to send part of it back or buy gift cards
- Pressure to act before the check “expires”
Deep-dive guide
Overpayment & Fake Check Job Scams: The Deposit-and-Wire Trap Explained
Frequently asked questions
Why is depositing an employer's check risky?
Funds from a deposited check can appear in your account before the check clears. If it later bounces as fake, the bank reclaims the money — including anything you already spent or sent onward.