--- title: "What Is a Notary Scam? Meaning & Example | MCC Solutions" description: "A fake job or check scheme that targets notaries and signing agents. A worked example, how it differs from wire fraud, common mistakes and what to do." url: "https://mcc-solutionsnj.com/notary/glossary/notary-scam" --- Notary glossary # What is a notary scam? A fake job or check scheme that targets notaries and signing agents. By [Matthew Coleman](/about), MCC Solutions ✓ New Jersey commissioned notary, no. 50244803, insured for errors and omissions. [See the credentials](/about/credentials) ## In plain English Common signs include overpayment checks and requests to send money back. Real signing companies do not ask for such transfers. Need this notarized? [Get it notarized online by a New Jersey notary over video](/notary/remote-online-notarization), or [book a notary visit in New Jersey](/notary/#order). Verify any company before accepting work, look the sender up independently, and never deposit a check and send money back. ## Why it matters New notaries are an easy target because they are eager for work and may not yet know how signing companies operate. A fake job that sends an oversized check can drain the notary's bank account when the check bounces after the money was sent back. Some schemes also try to collect a notary's commission details, seal image or ID, which can then be used to fake notarizations. ## Worked example A notary receives a check larger than the fee and a request to return the difference; she declines and reports it. ## What to do - Look up any new company through sources you find yourself, not links in the message. - Call the company at a number from its official site before accepting work. - Never send money back from a check you deposited for a client. - Do not email images of your seal or commission certificate to unknown parties. - Report suspected fraud to your bank and to consumer protection authorities. ## Common mistakes - Depositing an overpayment check and wiring the difference usually leaves the notary owing the full amount when the check is returned. - Sending a stamp image to a new contact can allow forged certificates in the notary's name. - Accepting a job that skips meeting the signer in person invites a fake notarization. ## Not the same as: Wire fraud (closing) A notary scam targets the notary's own money or credentials, while closing wire fraud targets a buyer's funds through fake wiring instructions. [See Wire fraud (closing)](/notary/glossary/wire-fraud). ## Go deeper - [Common Notary Scams and How Signers Can Avoid Them](/notary/guides/common-notary-scams-and-how-to-avoid-them): Fake notaries, blank-page signings, immigration notario fraud, deed theft and remote session impersonation: warning signs for signers and how to protect yourself. - [Fake Check and Job Scams Targeting New Notaries](/notary/guides/fake-check-and-job-scams-targeting-new-notaries): Notaries are targeted with overpayment checks, bogus signing jobs and fake background-check fees. Learn the warning signs and what to do if you have been contacted. ## Related terms - [Notary seal or stamp](/notary/glossary/notary-seal): The stamp or embosser a notary places on a certificate that shows their name and commission details. - [Oath and affirmation](/notary/glossary/oath-and-affirmation): A spoken promise to tell the truth. An oath calls on a higher power; an affirmation does not. - [Notary journal](/notary/glossary/notary-journal): A bound or electronic record of each notarial act the notary performs. ## Common questions **What is a notary scam?** A fake job or check scheme that targets notaries and signing agents. **Can you give an example of notary scam?** A notary receives a check larger than the fee and a request to return the difference; she declines and reports it. **What are warning signs of a fake signing job?** Payment before work, checks for more than the agreed amount, pressure to act fast and requests to forward money are common red flags. **What should I do if I already deposited a suspicious check?** Contact your bank right away and do not send any money onward. Report it to local authorities as well. General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office. Need help? [### Mobile notary Mobile signings in New Jersey, remote online notarization and apostille help. Notary services →](/notary/) [Full glossary](/notary/glossary) Do it yourself ### New Jersey Notary Starter Kit The paperwork a new notary has to build from scratch, ready to print or edit: a journal laid out for what New Jersey's manual says to record, checklists, forms and client emails. [See what's inside ($29)](/toolkits/nj-notary-starter-kit) [Free sample](/toolkits/nj-notary-starter-kit#free-starter)14-day full refund ## Need a document notarized? Book a notary. [Book a notary](/notary/#order)[Call (908) 444-6373](tel:+19084446373)