SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sec-fake-check
You deposit a check and the money shows in your account. Does that mean the check is good?
No. Fake checks can take weeks to be found.
- No, fake checks can take weeks to be discovered ✔
- Yes, the bank checks it first
- Yes, if it is a cashier's check
Why: Banks must release funds quickly, but that only means the money is available, not that the check cleared. When it bounces, you owe the bank.
Huh, didn't know that: The FTC says don't accept a check for more than the selling price.
How many software engineers does it take to change a light bulb? None, it's a hardware problem.
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References
Answer: No, fake checks can take weeks to be discovered. Banks must release funds quickly, but that only means the money is available, not that the check cleared. When it bounces, you owe the bank.
- FTC: How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Fake Check Scams consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-fake-check-scams
It can take weeks for a bank to figure out that the check is a fake.
Checked 2026-10-10.
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