Fraud & Cybersecurity Awareness

SPOTLIGHT: Mobile Deposit Check Fraud

How to Spot and Stop the Scam

Mobile banking has made life more convenient, but unfortunately, scammers have found new ways to exploit this technology. One common scheme is mobile deposit check fraud, where criminals trick victims into depositing a fake check using their banking app, then pressure them to send most of the funds back.

These scams often start online. Fraudsters may reach out through social media, email, or text messages, posing as potential employers, lenders, or investors. Sometimes they even claim to have “overpaid” you and ask for the difference back. When the fake check eventually bounces, the victim is left responsible for the loss.

Common Tactics in Mobile Deposit Fraud

• Criminals send victims fraudulent checks and ask them to deposit them via their mobile banking app.
• Victims are told to send money back through wire transfer, gift cards, or cashier’s checks.
• Scammers create urgency, insisting the victim act quickly before the check is flagged.

STOP AND THINK – How to Protect Yourself

• Check account activity – If a mobile deposit doesn’t align with your normal transactions, be cautious.
• Verify the issuer – Does the company or person writing the check operate in your geographic area?
• Inspect the endorsement – Is it missing or does it not match the account holder’s name?
• Compare payee details – Does the payee name match the account owner’s name?
• Look closely at the check – Is it computer-generated with only the payee’s name handwritten? Are the numerical and written amounts inconsistent? Does it show signs of alteration?
• Check image clarity – Blurry or poor-quality check images can be a red flag.

Remember: If something feels off about a mobile deposit, trust your instincts. It’s always better to pause and verify before sending money.

Want to learn more about protecting yourself from fraud? Read our article on How To Protect Yourself From Check Fraud.

More in our STOP AND THINK Fraud Awareness Series

Learn how to spot scams, protect your finances, and stay one step ahead of fraudsters:

• How to Protect Yourself From Check Fraud
• IRS Telephone Scam: How to Protect Yourself
• Text Message Scams
• Computer Tech Support Scams

Stay alert, stay informed — and always STOP AND THINK.