In addition to Mike-In-MD's correct answer, read this ... carefully!
http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/cnwin0607/scams.html
Extract:
"In these cases, the depositor most likely will be held responsible for the entire amount of the fraudulent check."
Instead of cashing the check, or sending it back, take it and the envelope in which it came to the post office. They will use it as evidence and pursue the scammer.
hey,i also got a check--$2990 did a search and the 647-894-6077 came back as a cell number from BARRIE,CANADA. Also got a letter with the check and it also had a number on it 647-686-0304, did a search on it and it came back from TORONTO,CANADA. hey just a quick question, i called the number on the letter and they said to deposit the check and let the bank put a hold on it until it clears and the money is in my account then to call them back to find out where im doing my "MYSTERY SHOPPING" at. So far i dont see the catch, if it clears then i have their $2990 in my account and technically the money is mine. Whats the catch ?
That check is not going to clear. The fraudsters are hoping your bank will not hold the check and give you the funds immediately. If you refer to your letter it asks you to send money to Western Union via a Money Order. You are sending the money order to the fraudster. The check is returned to bank as counterfeit and your account is debited for the amount of the check. Now you've lost the money. Please do not fall for these types of checks, they are all scams! If it sounds too good to be true it is. I am a fraud investigator at a bank and just had to write to you after reading your post. I don't want to see you lose your money.
I received a check for $2950.00 on the First National Bank in McMinnille, TN. It souned to good to be true. I called the number on the check and they spoke French Canadian. Anytime anyone asks you to send the bulk of money someplace to Western Union and Money Gram Transfer you better be careful. It is just another scam. I called the number in the letter 905-781-6889 and asked for Lucy Black per the letter and when she answered I asked her if it was a scam. She got very nasty with me. The letter was signed by Jenny Wong. I wish there was some way to to go after jerks that pull these scams.
I didnot get a call i also got a letter in the mail with a $2,950 check! Extreme Secret Schopper!! this isnt the first time i have received one of these checks and they are fradulent. Dont put in your bank account and dont cash or you could go to jail and be fined! Becareful because this could really mess you up in a lot of ways.
I agree with the donk I had the same type of check and the same city, state and signer. I to wish there was a way we could get back at these people! I know the economy is bad but this is really wrong what they are trying to get people to do!