As consumer reporter for WBRE News, I'd like to warn you of the growing problem of check and money order scams that are being perpetrated through on-line classifieds across the U.S.

The National Consumers League says "fake check scams are a clever ploy designed to steal your money." Typically scammers send counterfeit checks or money orders in excess of the amount requested. In return the seller is asked to wire the excess to another person. The seller is legally held responsible for the funds. This scam has cost unsuspecting people thousands of dollars. PAHomePage.com has learned that some of these "scammers" have contacted classified advertisers here posing as potential buyers.

Here are some tips to spot a fake check scam:

• The potential "buyer" wants to send a cashiers check or money order in excess of your asking price.
• The potential "buyer" wants you to wire the extra funds to someone.
• The potential "buyer" does not call you directly.
• Many "scammers" are from other countries and have obvious grammatical or spelling errors in their emails.

If you think you may have received a phony check call the bank listed on the check. If you get a bogus check, don't deposit it, report it to the National Consumers League at (800) 876-7060 or www.fraud.org. Thanks for visiting PAHomePage.com Classifieds. We hope you find this service helpful. For more info check out my recent Consumer Report on this scam.

- Jeff Chirico

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