This summer, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram were flooded with videos demonstrating how users could deposit fake checks into Chase accounts and withdraw cash from ATMs immediately—even without available funds. The phenomenon rapidly gained traction, drawing thousands of participants and widespread attention online. Some videos garnered millions of views, with TikTok eventually issuing a warning that engaging in the activity could lead to serious repercussions.

One particularly popular clip showed a woman calling her mother and explaining that she could potentially withdraw up to $50,000 by cutting checks and exploiting the glitch.

JPMorgan Chase has taken legal action against individuals accused of exploiting a viral TikTok-driven scheme that involved withdrawing large sums of money using fraudulent checks. The bank filed lawsuits in federal courts in Texas, California, and Florida, naming four individuals who allegedly manipulated a technical glitch at Chase Bank ATMs.

JPMorgan has indicated that it is still assessing the full impact of the scam but estimates that thousands were involved in the fraudulent activity. While the exact financial losses have not been disclosed, the bank has emphasized the broader implications of such schemes on the integrity of the banking system. “Fraud is a crime that impacts everyone and undermines trust in the banking system,” a spokesperson for JPMorgan said, adding that the bank is working closely with law enforcement.

In the lawsuits, JPMorgan detailed the substantial negative balances that resulted from the scheme. For instance, one defendant in Texas reportedly owes over $290,000, while others in California and Florida owe between $90,000 and $141,000. These cases highlight the significant debts accrued as participants withdrew funds that did not exist in their accounts.

The incident prompted TikTok to take action by adding disclaimers to related content, warning users of potential harm. Although JPMorgan fixed the glitch within a few days, the rapid spread and large participation underscored vulnerabilities in digital banking and the power of social media in propagating potentially harmful trends.