Is it safe to accept checks on Craigslist?

Don’t accept cashier/certified checks or money orders – banks cash fakes, then hold you responsible. “craigslist voicemails” – Any message asking you to access or check “craigslist voicemails” or “craigslist voice messages” is fraudulent – no such service exists.

Can you get scammed from checks?

In a fake check scam, a person you don’t know asks you to deposit a check— sometimes for several thousand dollars, and usually for more than you are owed — and send some of the money to another person. The scammers always have a good story to explain why you can’t keep all the money. Fake checks come in many forms.

What happens if someone gives you a fake check and you deposit it?

If you deposit a fake check, it can take weeks before the bank realizes that it’s counterfeit. Once the check is returned unpaid, the check will bounce — meaning it can’t be cashed — even if you didn’t know that the check was bad. And you’ll likely be responsible for repaying the bank the amount of the faked check.

What are some things you should never do with Western Union?

Never wire funds (e.g. Western Union) – anyone who asks you to is a scammer. Don’t accept cashier/certified checks or money orders – banks cash fakes, then hold you responsible. Transactions are between users only, no third party provides a “guarantee”.

How common are fake checks on Craigslist?

These scams are common on Craigslist and other online marketplaces, and the number of fake check complaints to the FTC and the Internet Fraud Complaint Center doubled between 2014 and 2017 from 12,781 to 29,513, according to a report by the Better Business Bureau.

How can I tell if a Craigslist transaction is fraudulent?

These claims are fraudulent, as transactions are between users only. The scammer will often send an official looking (but fake) email that appears to come from craigslist or another third party, offering a guarantee, certifying a seller, or pretending to handle payments. 2. Distant person offers a genuine-looking (but fake) cashier’s check:

What should I do if I am defrauded by someone on Craigslist?

If you are defrauded by someone you met in person, contact your local police department. If you suspect that a craigslist post may be connected to a scam, please send us the details. Most scams attempts involve one or more of the following: