Young Adults · Lesson 5
Fake Checks, Overpayments and Payment Reversals
Screenshots, emails and payment confirmations are not proof that funds are safely yours.
- A scammer may send a check or electronic payment for more than the amount owed and ask you to return the difference.
- Money appearing in an account does not necessarily mean the underlying payment is final or legitimate.
- Victims can be left responsible when a fraudulent deposit is reversed.
- Do not refund an overpayment until your financial institution independently confirms the payment is legitimate and final.
Screenshots, emails and payment confirmations are not proof that funds are safely yours.
This is Lesson 5 of the Financial Scams Education Series (Young Adults). Continue with Romance, Friendship and Social-Engineering Scams.
This article is for educational purposes and is not legal, tax, insurance, cybersecurity, or law-enforcement advice. Scam tactics change. If you think you have been scammed, contact your financial institution immediately and consider reporting to appropriate authorities. Su Bella Vida is not a bank, broker, CPA, or law firm. Read our terms & disclaimer.