The "easy work-from-home job" check scam
This made-up offer sends a check and tells you to return part of it in gift cards. The check may look real while the money you send away is your own.
Step 1 See what it looks like
This is a made-up example to teach you. We will never show you a real person’s message.
Step 2 Find the red flags
- 1
“No interview needed. You are hired today!”
A fast offer needs a check of the employer and job.
- 2
“We will mail you a check for $2,000”
An advance alone is not proof of a scam. The request to send part back is the key risk here.
- 3
“keep $500 for pay”
Keeping a share makes the deal feel good. It does not prove the check is real.
- 4
“send $1,500 back”
Do not return funds from a check you have not checked with your bank.
- 5
“buy gift cards”
Card codes let someone spend the balance. This is a serious warning.
- 6
“for your computer”
A claim about equipment does not prove this is your employer. Check the job and the process yourself.
Step 3 See why it works
A bank may show a deposit before it learns a check is fake. If the check is reversed, you may owe the bank. That can include money you already sent away.
- Do not deposit or act on this unverified check.
- If you put it in the bank, do not spend or send the funds. Tell the bank you suspect a fake check.
- Do not buy gift cards or return money as the sender asks.
- Find the employer yourself and check the offer.
- Keep the check, texts, and receipts.
- If you sent money or codes, call your bank or card company now. Report the scam.
A balance in your account does not prove a check is good. Ask your bank before acting on a suspect check.