Despite a decline in paper-check usage, check fraud continues to be a problem, even at the ATM. Imaged ATMs could open doors for new types of fraud, such as increased attempts to deposit counterfeit checks.

What happens if you cash a fake check at the bank?

If you deposit a fake check, it can take weeks before the bank realizes that it’s counterfeit. Once the check is returned unpaid, the check will bounce — meaning it can’t be cashed — even if you didn’t know that the check was bad. And you’ll likely be responsible for repaying the bank the amount of the faked check.

What happens when a check is scanned?

A store clerk can scan your check to retrieve an image and capture your checking account information. The clerk will then void the physical check, return it to you and send your payment information to the merchant’s bank electronically. These transactions will appear on your bank statement as “debits,” not checks.

What happens if you cash a fake check?

A fake check isn’t always spotted by a bank. You may be able to cash a check, even if it is fake. A bank may not know a check is fake until the bank tries to clear the check. This process can take weeks. If you cash the check or deposit the check and then spend the funds, you will be responsible for paying the money back to the bank.

Can a counterfeit check look like a real check?

Some of the checks contain authentic-looking watermarks. These counterfeit checks are printed with the names and addresses of legitimate financial institutions. And even though the bank and account and routing numbers listed on a counterfeit check may be real, the check still can be a fake.

Where is the check number on a fake check?

Find the check number. Any legitimate check issued by a bank has a check number. The check number appears at the top right hand corner of the check. If the check does not have a check number, the check is fake.

How long does it take for a fake check to show up in your account?

While it might take just a day or two for the money from a check to show up in your account, the process of getting funds moved from the bank that issued the check to your bank is a long one. It can take weeks for your bank to figure out that the check that you deposited is fake or bad.