Definition of a Scam:

A scam is a fraudulent business scheme; a swindle

Definition of a Phishing:

Phishing is an e-mail fraud method in which the perpetrator sends out legitimate-looking email in an attempt to gather personal and financial information from recipients. Typically, the messages appear to come from well known and trustworthy Web sites, but not always.  A phishing expedition, like the fishing expedition it's named for, is a speculative venture: the phisher puts the lure hoping to fool at least a few of the prey that encounter the bait.

fourstateshomepage.com would like to warn you of the growing problem of check and money order scams that are being perpetrated through on-line classifieds across the U.S.

The National Consumers League says "fake check scams are a clever ploy designed to steal your money." Typically scammers send counterfeit checks or money orders in excess of the amount requested. In return the seller is asked to wire the excess to another person. The seller is legally held responsible for the funds. This scam has cost unsuspecting people thousands of dollars.

fourstateshomepage.com has learned that some of these "scammers" have contacted classified advertisers here posing as potential buyers.

Here are some tips to spot a fake check scam:

• The potential "buyer" wants to send a cashiers check or money order in excess of your asking price.
• The potential "buyer" wants you to wire the extra funds to someone.
• The potential "buyer" does not call you directly.
• Many "scammers" are from other countries and have obvious grammatical or spelling errors in their emails.

If you think you may have received a phony check call the bank listed on the check. If you get a bogus check, don't deposit it, report it to the National Consumers League at (800) 876-7060 or www.fraud.org.

If you ever suspect any fraudulent activity please contact one or all of the establishments listed below immediately.  They will be able to quickly investigate and take the necessary steps to safeguard and protect you.

You can call the National Fraud Information Center at:  (800) 876-7060 or visit their website at:  www.fraud.org/info/repoform.htm

Contact Firstrade at: service@firstrade.com or by U.S. Postal Service at:  Firstrade Securities Inc., 133-25 37th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354.

You can also forward any suspicious or fraudulent spam to:  Federal Trade Commission at:  spam@uce.gov

Another resource is the Anti-Phishing Working Group at: reportphishing@antiphishing.org