Just wanted to touch on one scam that is making the rounds. Many users know the scams to do with sending money to anyone over the internet. But what if you are given a check from a potential employer, such as to buy equipment or work tools, to deposit? What could happen? I interviewed a Chase representative, who told me that he has had recent cases where someone would deposit the check and then the scammer would tell the victim to send on part of the money, or buy gift cards with it. Similarly, “reshipping scams” will ask you to send on a package or funds to another address.
Another such scam can make use of your bank tracking number.
From the FTC’s Consumer Advice:
“The check will bounce, and the bank will want you to repay the amount of the fake check.”
Another warning here is a request to send ID such as a driver’s license as part of pre-employment requirements.
It all goes to the age-old maxim “if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.”