Fake checks are the darlings of many scam artists, from bogus lottery winnings, fake employment opportunities, to phony grant awards. Whatever the story, the scam artist sends you a check and then asks you to use it to buy gift cards or wire money to them. You deposit the check into your account, and when it bounces, you are responsible for covering those funds. There is no legitimate reason why someone who gives you money would need you to send money back to them.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

Visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam or get help if you’ve fallen victim.