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We're the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly.

Learn how the CFPB can help you

Someone bought something I was selling online and sent me a check or money order for more than the price of the item. They asked me to send back the difference. Should I be worried?

Answer:

Yes, this is a common scam. Alert your bank or credit union and the online auction site or marketplace. Do not send any money to the buyer.

If you deposit a counterfeit money order, you will not receive any funds or, if the funds are deposited, you will have to pay them back even if you have already withdrawn them from your account. Alert your bank or credit union if you believe you received a counterfeit money order.

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The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. The CFPB updates this information periodically. This information may include links or references to third-party resources or content. We do not endorse the third-party or guarantee the accuracy of this third-party information. There may be other resources that also serve your needs.