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While scrolling through social media, you might come across a video or post discussing an “opportunity” to make money using checks. The problem? That advice could get you in trouble.

The supposed hack involves writing a check for more money than you have, depositing it into a different account of yours, and then withdrawing the money before the (bad) check is fully processed. What the video or post might not tell you is that could leave you on the hook for paying back all the money, kicked out of your bank, and in serious legal trouble for bank fraud.

Before you jump onboard a viral trend: 

  • Do some research. Search the trend along with terms like “scam” or “fraud” to see what others are saying about it. Talk to friends and family to see what they think.
  • Think about the source. What do you know about the person or account that makes them trustworthy?
  • Compare advice from a variety of well-known sources. Don’t just trust what one person or account says.

Learn more at ftc.gov/fakechecks.

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