Got an unexpected check in the mail? It may be fake

In fake check schemes, criminals send checks to their victims, who deposit them. The money initially shows up in the victims’ bank accounts. Then the criminals — using a variety of ploys, like phony job offers, “overpayment” for an item bought online or bogus sweepstakes — persuade the victims to send some of the money back, often by wire transfer or a gift card. The check eventually bounces, leaving the victim owing money to the bank.