Your Mind Is Your Lightsaber — Cut Through Every Scam
Earlier this month, we celebrated May the 4th, and as we move through May, we want to make sure we continue to defeat the dark side. Let your light shine as we work together to cut down on the scams and fraud that these bad actors have planned.
We’ve seen a significant uptick in check fraud recently, so we’re sharing some helpful information and tips to help you stay alert and continue to thwart the dark side.
Fake Check Overpayment Scam
You receive a check for more than you’re owed and are asked to return the difference.
The check later turns out to be fake, and you’re responsible for the money sent back.
Red Flag: Pressure to act quickly or send money before the check fully clears.
Employment or “Work‑From‑Home” Check Scam
You receive a check for more than you’re owed and are asked to return the difference.
The check later turns out to be fake, and you’re responsible for the money sent back.
Red Flag: Job offers that require handling money or checks upfront.
Online Sales Check Scam
A buyer sends a check for an online item (marketplace, social media, classified ad).
After depositing, you’re asked to refund part of the payment or pay a “shipper.”
Red Flag: Buyers who insist on paying by check and overpaying.
Mystery Shopper Scam
You’re sent a check and asked to evaluate a business by making purchases or sending funds.
The check is fake, but the money you send is real.
Red Flag: Being paid before performing any real work.
Prize, Lottery, or Sweepstakes Scam
You’re told you’ve won a prize and receive a check to cover “taxes” or “fees.”
You must deposit the check and send money to claim the prize.
Red Flag: Legitimate prizes don’t require upfront payments.
Rental or Real Estate Check Scam
A renter or buyer sends a check and later asks for a refund due to “changed plans.”
The original check is fraudulent.
Red Flag: Sudden cancellations with refund requests.
Fake Refund or Reimbursement Scam
You receive an unexpected check claiming to be a refund or reimbursement.
You’re asked to return part of it due to an “error.”
Red Flag: You weren’t expecting money but are asked to move it quickly.
How Members Can Protect Themselves
Never send money back from a deposited check - Even if the check appears to clear initially, it can still be returned as fake.
Be cautious with checks from people you don’t know - Especially when paired with urgent requests.
Don’t trust checks tied to pressure or secrecy - Scammers often rush you to act before you can verify.
Verify independently - Contact employers, buyers, or companies using trusted phone numbers—not those provided to you.
When in doubt, don’t deposit the check - Ask us to review it before taking action.
Protect Your Checks & Account Information
Write checks with permanent gel ink to make them harder to alter.
Store checks securely and never leave them in an unlocked car or shared space.
Avoid leaving outgoing checks in home mailboxes overnight—use secure mail drop-offs when possible.
Shred old checks, statements, and documents that contain account information.
Monitor Your Account Regularly
Review your account activity frequently, even if you don’t use checks often.
Sign up for account alerts to be notified when checks clear your account.
Report missing checks or suspicious charges immediately—fast reporting can limit losses.
Special shout out to all the mom’s out there that just celebrated Mother’s Day! Now is the perfect opportunity for you to take the time to educate all the moms out there to make sure that they are also equipped with the force to defeat the darkside. As we gear up for this upcoming summer season, lets make sure to not only make vacation plans but to also prepare to protect yourself and your loved ones as you embark on your future adventures. Here’s to an action packed summer, may the vibes be with you!
And Remember! When in doubt, ALWAYS reach out!
