Check Scams.

[carol b]

I believe that it is important to know what is going on out there.
This article was published by my credit union and I thought you
guys would like to see it.

While there are common types of check scams, there are no hard, fast rules. The scams are always evolving with new twists. Motor City's management and staff are alerted to unusual circumstances and may ask questions of you, the member. We have seen counterfeit check fraud and do not want you to become a victim.
Common scenarios where consumers receive counterfeit checks
While the scenarios in which the victim is roped in are different and often change and evolve, the final part of these scams are all the same. The victim receives a counterfeit check and is asked to forward the funds outside of the U.S. via Western Union, Money Gram or some other money transfer service:

Motor City Coop Credit Union

Check Scams.

I get alot of this crap in my junk mail. If you don't know them
don't answer them. They are crooks out to get your money not
give you theirs.

[dollardaze]

I agree with you carol b, there are many scammers out there and we must always be aware when checking our email, or for that matter our 'snail mail' also. I have seen elderly people on the news who have been scammed by mail, and it just breaks my heart. Be sure when you order checks, that you don't have too much information printed on them. It doesn't take much for someone to steal your identity, and there are those out there who will do just that.

[moneysense]

This has also been a topic of conversation at our local banks, but is actually nothing new. Just the way it is gone about these days are the differences.

One has to be very careful with ones identity as there are people out there just ready and waiting for the next victim to come along.

As was stated, just have the bare mimimum printed on your checks. The less information that is there, the harder someone has to work in order to get the rest of the information to steal your identity.

[kst$]

A friend of mine called about being a secret shopper. They sent her information alone with a $3,000 check. Told her to cash the check. Spend $200 at walmart keep $800 and send the rest back to this other country by cashiers check. She called walmart thank god and they confirmed that this is not how secret shoppers work and she tore up the check. So there are all kinds of scams to watch out for.

[pennypinch]

Anyone who is basically trying to give you something for nothing is trying to scam you. Be very wary. I do not trust any of those quick money making ideas you receive in emails. I am always aware of who wants my info and why and I never just give it out. These days you need to be very careful with everything you do.