I'm dealing with a potential client who initially approached me from out of state. They've approved my project proposal but are now asking to send me a check for more than what we agreed on. The extra amount would supposedly go to pay their graphic designer since they claim they're in a place where they can't handle it themselves. I'm unsure if this is a legitimate request or if it raises any red flags. What do you think?
5 Answers
Definitely a scam. Avoid any transaction like that. It's not worth the risk.
Yep, that sounds like a common scam. The check will likely bounce, and you'll be out of the money you gave to the designer.
Just to add, even if it wasn’t a scam, handling payments like this could complicate your taxes. Stick to upfront payments or cash only.
Huge red flag! Scammers love to pull this tactic — they send a check larger than your fee, and then once you send the difference to them, the check bounces and you're on the hook. Don't go for it!
This is a classic overpayment scam. They send you a fake check, you cash it, and then the bank takes back the funds when it bounces. The money you send out is your own, leaving you out of pocket. Steer clear!
As a mod in r/Scams, I can assure you, this is absolutely a scam. Watch out for the sunk cost fallacy; once you’ve invested time, you might feel pressured to send them money despite obvious red flags.