ShoppingReviewed 18 August 2026

Marketplace overpayment

A buyer sends a check for too much and asks you to forward or refund the difference before the fake payment is discovered.

WHY IT WORKS

The hook

The money may appear in your account temporarily, making the buyer’s explanation feel plausible.

WHAT THEY WANT

The endgame

Real money sent back against a fake or stolen check that is later reversed.

WHAT TO NOTICE

Three repeating signals

01
A buyer pays more than the asking price
02
You must send money to a courier or refund the difference
03
They insist on leaving the marketplace’s payment system

IF YOU ALREADY ACTED

Move quickly, without panic

Contact your bank and explain the suspected fake check
Do not spend the apparent funds
Report the account to the marketplace

Recovery depends on the payment method and circumstances. Contact the relevant bank, platform or local authority using independently verified details.