We're not sure how this scam is initiated, but we are well aware of how it works.  We don't know if the victim unexpectedly receives a check in the mail or if they responded to a phishing scam.  The victim receives a fraudulent check for lottery or gambling "winnings", usually for a couple thousand dollars.  The victim receives this "small" fraudulent check in promise of a much larger check (which they'll never receive).  The victim then has to send an "agent" (the scammer) most of the money from the fraudulent check they received in order to collect the "big" check.  These fraudulent checks can be real certified checks on a closed account or counterfeit cashiers checks that look authentic.  When the check is returned to the financial institution, the victim is held responsible to pay back or cover the funds of the fraudulent check. 

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