The Lassen County Office of Education has issued an urgent warning to local residents and childcare providers regarding a sophisticated financial scam currently targeting caregivers throughout the region.
According to federal authorities, the Federal Trade Commission has identified a widespread “overpayment scam” operating across multiple digital channels. Fraudsters are actively reaching out to local childcare providers, educators and independent babysitters via email, text messages, social media and specialized online caregiving platforms.
The mechanics of the scam are deceptive yet effective. The bad actors pose as legitimate, well-meaning parents seeking immediate childcare services. Once an agreement is reached, the “parent” offers to pay in advance and sends an official-looking check. However, the check is intentionally written for a sum significantly higher than the agreed-upon amount.
Shortly after sending the payment, the scammer contacts the provider, claiming they “accidentally” overpaid. They then request that the provider wire or electronically transfer the excess funds back to them immediately.
Local education and law enforcement officials stress that the initial check is entirely fraudulent. Because banks are legally required to make deposited funds available quickly, it often takes several days or even weeks for a check to fully clear and be verified as counterfeit. If a childcare provider sends money back from the “overpayment” during this window, the fake check will eventually bounce, leaving the provider entirely responsible for the lost funds and any associated bank penalties.
PROTECT YOURSELF: KEY RULES FOR PROVIDERS
Verify Clients First: Thoroughly vet any new or prospective clients before entering a business agreement or accepting payments.
Wait for Clearances: Never send money back from an overpayment until your financial institution confirms the check has fully cleared. Note that funds appearing in your available balance do not mean the check is verified.
Be Extremely Cautious: Treat any unexpected request to return overpaid funds or forward balances via gift cards, wire transfers, or digital apps as a major red flag.
The golden rule to remember: When in doubt, slow down and verify.
The Lassen County Office of Education asks area residents to help spread the word by sharing this scam alert with childcare providers, private caretakers, educators and families in the community to prevent neighbors from falling victim to this financial trap.
