Check Overpayment Scam Notice
Notice: The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) warns taxpayers to be
aware of
check
overpayment scams
involving
fraudulent checks identified as Commonwealth of Massachusetts/Department of
Revenue.
Check overpayment scams are often in response to ads or online auction
postings. Sellers are contacted by an alleged buyer, who offers to pay for an
item with a cashier's, personal, government or corporate check. At the last
minute, the buyer will often present a reason for having to write the check for
more than the purchase price, and request the seller to send or wire back the
difference to a Post Office box after the check has been deposited.
In most instances, the checks are counterfeit and while the checks may
initially clear the bank – the check will eventually bounce, leaving the seller
liable for the entire amount.
If you receive a check from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts/Department of
Revenue for the purchase of items that are selling either from an advertisement
or online auction posting, please immediately contact DOR’s Office of Internal
Affairs at 617-626-2130.
