Crime & Safety

Local Scam: Plainfield Cops Warn Of 'Paid To Drive' Ruse

Don't fall for the fake check scam.

PLAINFIELD, IL — If it seems to good to be true, it probably is. Plainfield police are warning residents of a "paid to drive" scam claiming that vehicle owners with a valid license can earn $500 or more each week by having their car wrapped in an advertisement. Scammers will send victims fake checks, asking them to take a share of the money and wire the rest to a graphic designer.

"Wait for it ...," police said. "The checks are fake and will bounce," while the scammers pocket the money the victim wires to the so-called "designer."

"You will be responsible to pay back the bank the wired amount and other charges associated with the processing of the check," police warned. Plainfield authorities urged residents to do their research before participating in an offer, even if it seems legitimate. (For more information on this and other neighborhood stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts.)

Find out what's happening in Plainfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Image via Shutterstock

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.