iYogi Alerts: Beware of the Fake Check Scam

March 29, 2011

What is the fake check scam? This scam involves sending fake checks as payments for goods and services purchased online.

New York, NY, March 29, 2011 - iYogi, the provider of on-demand remote tech support services, has released its latest iYogi Scam Alerts about fake check scams that are looting people in the name of payment. Generally, this scam targets people who are attempting to sell expensive items online. Based on feedback from its large subscriber base, iYogi continuously monitors and publishes activities to alert other customers of online fraud and scams.

Research by iYogi has revealed that the scam is often initiated with an e-mail communication to a seller, offering to pay a large amount of money for the item(s) advertised. The fake buyer provides a check for a substantially larger sum than the cost of the item, and asks the seller to wire the excess money back. A common explanation given by the buyer for their overpayment is that the excess money is to be sent to a handling or shipping agent. The seller then receives a fake check, which looks so genuine that it even passes the bank teller, and wires the excess funds back by the seller, as agreed. In a few days, the fake check bounces and,as banks hold their customers responsible for checks that they deposit, the victim has to repay the money which was withdrawn against the fake check.

Fake checks are used by cheats, not just for paying for goods bought online, but also as payment for online assignments and even prize money.

What you can do about it:

• Do not accept any offers of excess money, especially where the difference needs to be wired back.
• Never refund any money instantly, without having the funds cleared by the bank.
• Always ask for a cashier’s check for the exact amount due to you, preferably from a local bank.

What iYogi has to say:
“While getting immediate payment for goods or services sold on the Internet is always gratifying, one must be wary of online criminals. These predators are constantly on the lookout for gullible sellers who can be duped into not only accepting a fake check but also remitting money back even before the check has cleared,” says Vishal Dhar, President of Marketing and co-founder of iYogi.

About iYogi
iYogi is a global on-demand services company that provides personalized computer support for consumers and small businesses in United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. iYogi’s unique model, including proprietary iMantra technology and highly qualified technicians, is designed to eliminate computer-related stress and keep millions of digitally dependent consumers and small businesses protected and productive. iYogi — with its proven global expertise delivery model, intelligent customer insight systems, easy-to-use self-help tools and automated PC optimization and computer support services – offers users a simple yet comprehensive path to digital serenity. iYogi has perfected the remote technical support model to overcome the current limitations of in-store, on-site, or call center services. Major resellers and technology companies are turning to iYogi to improve customer satisfaction, reduce return rates, and deliver a compelling new-value added offering to customers. For more information on iYogi and a detailed list of technologies supported, visit: http://www.iyogi.com.

Media Contact:
Matt Farrell
GlobalFluency
(646)652-5204
mfarrell@globalfluency.com