High riskJob Scams

Nanny Job Scam

This scam offers a well-paid nanny or caregiver role, then sends a cheque for more than agreed and asks you to forward the extra for 'supplies'; the cheque later bounces and you lose the money you sent.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Overpayment job scam
Main red flag
A 'family' sends you a cheque for more than your agreed pay and asks you to send the difference back.
What to do first
Do not send any money on. Wait until a cheque has fully cleared, which can take longer than it first appears in your balance.

What this scam usually looks like

This scam offers a well-paid nanny or caregiver role, then sends a cheque for more than agreed and asks you to forward the extra for 'supplies'; the cheque later bounces and you lose the money you sent.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'So happy you'll be our nanny! I've posted a cheque that includes extra for the baby's supplies. Once it lands, please send $400 to our equipment supplier by e-transfer so they can deliver before we arrive.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A job offer with high pay before any real interview or meeting
  • A cheque sent for more than the agreed amount
  • A request to forward part of the money to a third party
  • Pressure to act quickly before the cheque has cleared
  • A family who avoids phone or video calls and stays vague about details

What to do

  • Wait until any cheque has fully cleared before spending or sending money
  • Treat requests to forward money to a 'supplier' as a strong warning sign
  • Verify the family through a video call and independent references
  • Ask your bank how long a cheque really takes to clear

If you already clicked or replied

  • Do not send any further money, even if pressured
  • Contact your bank immediately if you deposited the cheque or sent funds
  • Keep all messages, the cheque, and any transfer receipts as evidence
  • Report the scam to the job platform and your national fraud authority

What not to do

  • Do not forward money before a cheque has truly cleared
  • Do not share your bank login or full account details
  • Do not accept overpayment and 'refund the difference'

Similar scams

High risk Bank & Payment

Overpayment Scam

A buyer, employer, or 'client' sends you a payment or cheque for more than they owe, then asks you to send the extra back. The original payment is fake or is later reversed, leaving you out of pocket for the refund you sent.
High risk Bank & Payment

Fake Cheque Scam

A buyer, employer, or prize giver sends a cheque for more than you are owed and asks you to deposit it and send back the difference. The cheque later bounces, the bank reclaims the full amount, and you are left owing the money you sent on.
High risk Job

Fake Job Offer Scam

This scam offers a job with little or no interview, then asks for upfront fees, personal documents, or bank details to 'set you up.'

Frequently asked questions

Why would a real family send extra money up front?
A genuine employer would not normally overpay and ask you to forward the difference. This overpayment pattern is a common scam used to make you send real money before a fake cheque bounces.
My bank showed the cheque amount, so is it safe?
Not necessarily. Funds can appear in your balance before a cheque truly clears, and it can be reversed days later, leaving you responsible for money you already sent on.
What if I already forwarded the money?
Contact your bank right away to report it and ask whether the transfer can be stopped or recovered. Keep all records, as acting quickly improves your chances.
How can I check a nanny job is genuine?
Insist on a video call, ask for verifiable references, and never send money to a new employer. Genuine families do not ask new staff to handle their funds before starting.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.