What is the worst case scenario?

Question

I received a check in the mail for $2100.00. I have called the bank and the account is valid and as far as I can tell the check is real. I really could use the money, and want to cash the check. What is the worst thing that could happen if this is a scam? Has anyone else received a check for contest winnings and cashed it?

I have contacted the person who sent it and the bank it is from. I jiust want to make sure even if it is a scam, and I decide to cash it I don't want to get into major trouble. My family is a bunch of sceptics about everything these days, so I just wanted an unbiased opinion.

I am not going to deposit it, I am going to use a check cashing place.

Answer 1

I'm guessing the worst that may happen is that when the posted check is returned to the sender, they will have your account number if you cashed it. Identity theft. I would never do anything with a check if I don't know exactly why I got it. It sounds like a scam to me.

Answer 2

Hmm. First, if it is a valid check deposited with no strings attached, there isn't much anyone can do to deny you the money. HOWEVER...

If you know that you don't deserve the money (say, it's supposed to be in return for some work and you've never worked for the payer), you could be liable for fraud. If it's contest winnings, that would be very unlikely, even if they've somehow mailed the winning check to the wrong person.

As far as a scam, don't spend any of the money from the check until the check clears. Also, be wary of identity theft. And, as a long shot, someone might try to harass you or guilt you into paying the money back, with a "fee" for unauthorized use of the money. You'd probably want to report that sort of a scam.

Those are about the worst consequences I can think of. Do you know or have contacted the payer of the check? That might be wise if you're still unsure.

Answer 3

Don't cashing places require ID?

DO NOT RISK IT, it's ALMOST ALWAYS a scam, look carefully at the check features, there are obvious ones, banks and WU are often complicit in scamming you and they'll ask for you to get the money back later.

The worst case scenario is you'll be liable to give it back if it's a scam. The fact you can't tell whether a check is real means it's probably fake. I hope this contest winning wasn't some e-mail notice and something you actually participated in and keep good touch with the people.

Answer 4

They get your account number from where you deposit.