On October 20 at 2PM, a Cleveland Avenue resident was the victim of check fraud. The victim listed an apartment for rent. A person who allegedly lived out of state agreed to send a check for the rent and security deposit. When the check arrived, it was for a greater amount. The victim was instructed to deposit the check and send the difference back to the ‘new renter’. After the victim send the balance back, his bank called and indicated the original check was fraudulent.
While this scheme may seem far-fetched; it is very common and takes on different forms. It can appear like an honest mistake when someone sends a check for too much money or claims that it was written in error. These checks appear legitimate at first (even to the bank), but are usually returned after the victim has withdrawn against them.