Fake Checks due to Internet Sale Listings

One of our members has received no less than three counterfeit checks from three different sources in connection with a rental property that was listed on a popular Internet listing site. The fake checks were delivered by overnight priority mail and looked like any other legitimate cashier's or bank check. In each case, the check delivered was for considerably more than the cost of the property rental. The "buyer" and sender of the checks wanted money wired back to them to cover additional costs associated with the rental property. No checks were ever negotiated as the member correctly questioned the check items and contacted the financial institutions listed on the checks. All items were verified as counterfeit checks.


Please be extremely cautious when transacting business with unknown parties delivering checks for goods or services over the Internet. Scammers from all over the world visit these online listing sites and attempt to fool people into sending them money from fake checks delivered in conjunction with the listings.


Checks can be counterfeited fairly easily these days. Know who you are dealing with when depositing negotiable check items into an account. Once that item is deposited, the member is legally responsible for the full amount of the check if that check is returned unpaid.


Here is a good web site with information on counterfeit checks: http://www.fakechecks.org/ .