Work-From-Home Equipment Check Scam
What to do when a fake employer sends a check and tells you to buy equipment, software or supplies.
Right Summary
The main consumer right or issue explained fastFake check job scams rely on the delay between deposit availability and the bank later determining the check is fake.
What This Means
Plain-English breakdown of the problemThe fake employer may tell the victim to deposit a check, buy office equipment, send money to a vendor or return an overpayment. The check can later bounce, leaving the victim responsible.
What To Save
Evidence that can matter laterSave job posting, emails, text messages, check image, deposit receipt, vendor instructions, payment proof and recruiter details.
What To Do First
The first clean action pathDo not spend money from the check. Contact the bank immediately and report the job scam.
What Not To Do
Common mistakes that can make the issue worseDo not assume funds are safe because they appear available. Do not wire money, buy gift cards or send payment to a vendor chosen by the employer.
Where To Report Or Escalate
Possible complaint, agency, company or platform pathsBank first if a check was deposited, FTC ReportFraud.gov and job board/platform.
Official Links
Government, regulator, agency, company or source linksDefentra / Elite Action
How this resource connects to evidence, scanning and actionUse Defentra Evidence Vault to save the job post, check, messages and payment instructions.
Source / Review File
Internal quality and trust signalsRelated Resources
More rights, guides and tools connected to this topicEducational Notice
Important limitationThis resource is educational and organizational. It is not legal advice, financial advice or a guarantee of any outcome. Rights, deadlines, reporting paths and requirements can vary by state, account type, product, service, contract, agency rules and case facts.