How to Tell a Check Is Fake & What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

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Find out how fake checks work and how to spot one
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Did you know that fake checks are the number one scam in the United States? In this day and age, it’s especially important to check your checks for inaccuracies to ensure they’re legit before cashing them in. In this article, we’ll teach you how to spot a fake check, what scams to look out for, and what to do if you believe you’ve been scammed.

Signs of a Fake Check

  1. All edges of the check are smooth, not perforated.
  2. The bank logo is incorrect, missing, or faded.
  3. There are missing check numbers.
  4. The MICR line doesn’t match the check number.
  5. The check feels flimsy, thin, or slippery.
Section 1 of 5:

How to Spot a Fake Check

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  1. Most checks written by legitimate individuals or businesses have at least one rough or perforated edge because these checks were torn out of a check book. Examine the sides of the check to see if all sides are smooth. If they are, it might have been printed on a computer and is fake. [1]
  2. Look at the front of the check for the bank logo where the checking account is held. If you don't see a logo, the check is likely fake. If the logo is faded or faint, this is probably evidence of the logo being copied from another source and could indicate a fake check as well. [2]
    • If the logo seems legitimate, look for an address. You need to check the validity of the bank address, which you can do by going online to the bank's website or calling the bank. Make sure each part of the address is correct.
    • If the check has no address or just a PO Box, the check is likely a fake.
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  3. Any legitimate check issued by a bank has a check number. The check number appears at the top right-hand corner of the check. If the check does not have a check number, the check is fake. The MICR line is the line of numbers at the bottom of a check printed by the issuing bank that gives all the relevant numbers for a check. From left to right, the long string of numbers contains the routing, account, and check numbers. The check number should match the numbers on the far right of the line. If it doesn't match, the check is likely a fake. [3]
    • If the check number is low, from 101-400 on a personal check or 1000-1500 on a business check, the check may be fake. This signals a new account, and 90 percent of fake checks are written from new accounts.
  4. The MICR line appears at the bottom of every check issued by a real bank. Rub your finger over the line to check the feel of the ink. Also, look at the ink's quality. The special ink used for the MICR line is dull and should print smoothly. If it is raised or shiny, the check is fake. [4]
    • Similarly, examine the routing number in the MICR line. This will be the first series of numbers in the MICR line. Go to the Federal Reserve Bank Services website and search for the routing number of the institution issuing the check. If it exists, check the bank's information against the name and address given to you by the Federal Reserve. If it doesn't match, you likely have a fake check. [5]
  5. Real checks are typically printed on thick, sturdy stock paper. Rub your fingers along the check. Notice the thickness of the check. Bend the check back and forth, noticing the resistance the check gives. If the check is thin, flimsy, or slippery, it is likely a fake check. [6]
    • Fake checks are also typically printed on shiny paper. If the check is not printed on matte paper, it might be fake.
    • You can also try an ink test. Dampen your finger and run it across an inked area of the check. If the color smears, it was printed on a color printer and is fake. [7]
  6. Most signed checks have a consistent signature. Look for gaps in the signature, a digital appearance, or shaky and erratic pen strokes. These are signs that may indicate the signature was forged or scanned from another source and printed. [8]
    • This doesn't always mean it is a fake check. There are some instances where a stamp is used to sign checks, which can make it look printed or irregular. [9]
  7. A few irregular aspects of a check can show it as being fake. In other words, missing information, misspellings, and illogical information. Here’s what to look for: [10]
    • Look for the address of a payee. Notice if it is typed instead of printed on the check.
    • Check for spelling or typing errors within any printed area.
    • Match the amount of the check with the spelled-out amount.
    • Pay attention to areas where things have been added or erased from the check. If you see anything out of the ordinary in these areas, you might have a fake check. [11]
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Section 2 of 5:

What to Do If You Suspect a Fake Check

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  1. If you believe you’ve been scammed with a fake check, don’t hesitate to report it. Here’s what you can do: [12]


Section 3 of 5:

Types of Fake Check Scams

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  1. Scammers will use fake checks to steal your money and make you seem at fault. Here are the most common fake check scams to look out for: [13]
    • Hiring personal assistants. You’ll be hired as a personal assistant with this scam, and your “boss” will tell you to buy gift cards with checks they send you.
    • Car wrap decals. A fake company will advertise a car wrapping service, asking you to deposit a check and send money for the service.
    • Sweepstakes. These scams are the most popular and will offer you fake money. They’ll send you a fake check of your prize and ask you to send money to cover fees and taxes for the delivery.
    • Overpayments. If someone buys something from you online, the scammer will say they “accidentally” sent you a check with too much and ask for a refund.
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    Steven Kibbel is a Certified Financial Planner and Founder of Kibbel Financial Planning based in Franklin, Tennessee. With over a decade of experience, Steven is passionate about empowering people to take charge of their financial future by offering comprehensive financial planning services, including cash flow planning, investment planning, and retirement planning. He is also a Chartered Financial Consultant, a Real Estate Affiliate Broker, and the author of several children’s books focused on teaching financial literacy. Steven has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Middle Tennessee State University.
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    If something seems too good to be true, it likely is. Scammers use scare tactics to try and get you to accept or comply with a scam. If an offer is miraculous or there’s pressure or a time limit you must adhere to, you’re likely being scammed.

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Section 4 of 5:

How to Avoid Common Scams

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  1. If you run a business, it's essential that you make stringent rules for accepting checks. Do not rely on just a physical examination of the check to protect yourself from fraud. Here are some things you may want to set into place before accepting checks: [14]
    • Checks must be from a local or in-state bank
    • Checks should not be written and accepted for more than the purchase amount
    • Checks should not be accepted that are starter checks, unnumbered checks, or non-personalized checks
    • The customer's complete name and address must appear on the check
    • The date must be accurate
    • The check should be signed in your presence and verified with the signature on a photo identification (driver's license, military ID, or state ID)
  2. If you get a check in the mail that claims you won a sweepstakes you never entered or won the lottery, be wary of the check. Often, these scams say the sent check only represents part of your winnings and is the first of many. They also ask you to send money for taxes on your winnings. This is an obvious sign of a scam, so never send money to someone you don’t know. [15]
    • A legitimate company or sweepstakes will never ask you to send money to them. Taxes on such winnings should always be paid directly to the government.
    • Similarly, never send money through wire transfer under these circumstances. This is the same as sending someone cash. Once the scammer picks it up from the wire service, there is no way to get your money back once you realize it is a scam.
  3. Many check scams use legitimate businesses as a cover for their corrupt ventures. If you recognize a real company attached to a check you receive and the check looks real, contact the company. Don't use any of the information that was sent with the check. These details could have been created by the person scamming you. Look for information about the company from an independent source to verify if the check you received is real. [16]
    • Research the company online. Most businesses will let you know if they sent you a check or if they are participating in a sweepstakes.
  4. A fake check isn't always spotted by a bank immediately. You may be able to cash a check, even if it is fake. A bank may only know a check is fake once the bank tries to clear the check. This process can take weeks. If you cash or deposit the check and then spend the funds, you will be responsible for paying the money back to the bank. It does not matter that the check is a scam or that you were unaware of it being fake. [17]
    • Do your due diligence to ensure the check is legitimate. Then, wait until the bank clears the check before spending the money.
    • The bank holds you responsible for determining the legitimacy of a check before you try to cash it.
    • Your accounts can be frozen if you fail to comply with the bank's request to return the money. The bank can also take legal action and sue you for the money. You may also be charged with fraud, even if you were unaware of the circumstances.
  5. Some check scams seem like job offers. If you are contacted to be a mystery shopper or an account manager at home, this is likely a scam. Most legitimate companies that hire mystery shoppers will never send you checks or money orders ahead of time. The scammers will likely tell you all you need to do is deposit the checks or money orders they send you. You take your pay as cash from the checks when you deposit them. Never deposit checks for someone you don't know or try to make money fast by working at home for an unknown business. [18]
    • Mystery shopping is a legitimate business but not a get-rich-quick opportunity. You are only paid after you complete the necessary tasks and send in a survey form. If you are ever asked to buy something, the company will always reimburse you.
    • If you think it might be a legitimate mystery shopping opportunity, check with the Mystery Shopping Providers Association .
  6. Many scams will write and ask you to invest in a foreign company or property. They will then send you a check that is an advance on your profits. This is a scam. Never cash a check that is supposed to be an advance on a foreign investment. [19]
    • Avoid investing in anything that you do not perform extensive research on beforehand.
  7. If you receive a grant you did not apply for, it is likely a scam. Grants are always awarded for a specific purpose and never given unsolicited. They are not a form of free money. A scam organization may send you a check advance of the amount and ask you to send payment to get the rest of the grant. The check sent to you is fake, and you will lose any money you send to the organization. [20]
    • Grants are also typically given in conjunction with an organization or institution where you will be performing some kind of research, paper, or study; they are not given out randomly or on a whim.
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Section 5 of 5:

FAQs

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  1. You may face jail time if you try to cash a fake check. If it’s the first time you’ve cashed a bad check, your bank will probably let you off with a warning and have you pay them back. If they suspect you’re aware of the scam, they may call the police. [21]
    • Jail time varies per state. For example, in Indiana, cashing a fake check over $50,000 is considered a Level 5 Felony, which is punishable by up to 6 years in prison. [22]
  2. Yes, but the routing number won’t match the bank. Fraudulent checks may have a real routing number, but they’re invalid because the number doesn’t match the bank being used. Scammers will use “legit” routing numbers from other banks to try and fool you. [23]
    • This is why it’s important to check if the routing number matches your bank’s. You can do this by searching for your bank’s routing number online or calling the bank itself.
  3. If you deposit a fake check, your bank will pull the amount from your account. It can take weeks to detect a fake check, so the money may not be pulled right away. Each bank and state has different laws on whether you’ll be charged or punished.
  4. Signs of a counterfeit check include missing addresses, discolorations or wet ink, and shiny numbers printed on the check. [24]
  5. Yes, banks must verify checks before cashing them out. If the check is fake or has no value, the bank will know with time. This is why it’s important to check your check before depositing it.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    If I tested a check by wetting my finger and rubbing it over the routing number and it does not smear, does that mean it is real?
    Michael R. Lewis
    Business Advisor
    Michael R. Lewis is a retired corporate executive, entrepreneur, and investment advisor in Texas. He has over 40 years of experience in business and finance, including as a Vice President for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. He has a BBA in Industrial Management from the University of Texas at Austin.
    Michael R. Lewis
    Business Advisor
    Expert Answer
    No, most scammers are aware of the need to use permanent ink. However, if the ink does smear, it is a sign that the check is fake.
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  • Question
    Is the required routing number on a check in the upper right corner?
    Michael R. Lewis
    Business Advisor
    Michael R. Lewis is a retired corporate executive, entrepreneur, and investment advisor in Texas. He has over 40 years of experience in business and finance, including as a Vice President for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. He has a BBA in Industrial Management from the University of Texas at Austin.
    Michael R. Lewis
    Business Advisor
    Expert Answer
    No, the routing number is the first set of numbers on the lower left bottom of the check. It should be nine digits.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.epcor.org/docs/Methods-to-Spot-a-Fake-Check.pdf
      2. ↑ https://www.epcor.org/docs/Methods-to-Spot-a-Fake-Check.pdf
      3. ↑ https://dbf.georgia.gov/check-fraud-counterfeit-checks
      4. ↑ https://help.cubase.org/cubase/recognizing_a_fraudulent_check.htm
      5. ↑ https://www.occ.gov/publications-and-resources/publications/banker-education/files/pub-check-fraud.pdf
      6. ↑ https://dbf.georgia.gov/check-fraud-counterfeit-checks
      7. ↑ https://www.occ.gov/publications-and-resources/publications/banker-education/files/pub-check-fraud.pdf
      8. ↑ https://dbf.georgia.gov/check-fraud-counterfeit-checks
      9. ↑ https://www.occ.gov/publications-and-resources/publications/banker-education/files/pub-check-fraud.pdf
      1. ↑ https://www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/august2019.html
      2. ↑ https://www.occ.gov/publications-and-resources/publications/banker-education/files/pub-check-fraud.pdf
      3. ↑ https://www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/august2019.html
      4. ↑ https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-report-fake-check-scams
      5. ↑ https://www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/august2019.html
      6. ↑ https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scam
      7. ↑ https://www.finra.org/investors/insights/avoiding-fake-check-scams
      8. ↑ https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/financial-and-insurance-scams/bank-and-check-scams
      9. ↑ https://www.finra.org/investors/insights/avoiding-fake-check-scams
      10. ↑ https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-report-fake-check-scams#howtoavoid
      11. ↑ https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/grants/avoid-grant-scams/index.html
      12. ↑ https://grl.law/can-you-go-to-jail-for-cashing-a-bad-check/
      13. ↑ https://www.hesslerlaw.com/blog/check-fraud-felony/
      14. ↑ https://sqnbankingsystems.com/blog/10-signs-of-fake-checks/
      15. ↑ https://dbf.georgia.gov/check-fraud-counterfeit-checks

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      If you think someone might have given you a fake check, examine the edges of the check to make sure one of them is perforated. If all the edges are smooth, it’s more likely to be fake. A real check should also have a clearly printed bank logo on the front and a check number in the top right corner. Next, check the MICR line printed the bottom of the check. That’s where the bank’s routing number appears. On a real check, the ink used to print this line should be smooth and matte, not raised and shiny. Additionally, most legitimate checks are printed on sturdy matte paper. If the paper is shiny, thin, or flimsy, the check may be fake. Finally, examine the text on the check. If you notice spelling errors in the printed text or signs that any text has been added or erased, it’s possible that the check is fake or has been tampered with. For help avoiding common check scams, scroll down!

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