Your Daily Computer Security Tips

Here is an oldie but definitely not a goodie. More than 1.3 million Americans have lost some cash to the fake check scam, either online, snail mail or by telephone. This scam has been around forever, but seems to be increasing in these tough times.

It works like this: You get a check in the mail, and you are asked to deposit it in your account. The check is supposedly for some kind of payment, lottery win, deposit, rent, etc.

Then suddenly the sender pretends to have a change of heart, or discovers the whole thing is an error, and asks for part or all of the money back. That is when you should STOP, take a deep breath, and go talk to your bank or a lawyer.

You are very probably being scammed, because after you return the money you will invariably find the original check was fake. You are now on the hook to your bank for the whole amount.

You should know that it actually takes weeks for a check to clear, or establish that it is in fact good. It may take even longer for overseas checks. Lawyers, business people and Internet experts have been roped in by these schemes, and their endless variations. Do not be one of them.