SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/teen-scam-fake-check

A "boss" sends you a check to deposit and asks you to send some back. What happens?

The check will bounce and you'll owe the bank.

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  1. The check bounces and you owe the bank ✔
  2. The boss pays you extra
  3. The bank covers it forever

Why: Fake check scams look real. The bank may make the money available before it finds the fake, and then you must repay the amount.

Huh, didn't know that: Never deposit a check and send money back to someone.

The dad joke
How can you be sure you have counterfeit money? If it's a three-dollar bill, you can be sure.
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References

Answer: The check bounces and you owe the bank. Fake check scams look real. The bank may make the money available before it finds the fake, and then you must repay the amount.

  1. FTC: Job scams consumer.ftc.gov/articles/job-scams
    The check will bounce, and the bank will want you to repay the amount of the fake check.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FTC: How to avoid a scam consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scam
    never deposit a check and send money back to someone
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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