'I feel like an idiot': This Ohio couple was swindled out of thousands in a fake check and gift card scam after being promised an $8,000 personal loan — here's their warning for others

"It's depressing because we really haven't been able to get caught back up on everything," Christina told News 5 in a story published April 17.

Now, the couple wants to warn others. Here's how the scam worked, along with some tips on how to avoid a similar situation.

How a scam cost the Browns thousands

The Browns say Emily told them they could borrow funds, but there was a catch. Because the couple had poor credit, she said they'd have to print the loan checks themselves, which were sent by email. The couple was instructed to buy blank check paper and print them out.

Next, the Browns say they were told to deposit the checks into their account at different Fifth Third Bank locations. Afterward, they were to buy gift cards and forward the codes on those card. The instructions left them scrambling.

"I’m getting off work and I’m running around Lorain County trying to get these checks done and deposited, and then have to turn right back around and go buy gift cards,” Christina explained.

She began to get upset, and Tony acknowledged the situation was a little odd

"When the bank accepted my first one, I was like this might be cool," he said. "I didn't know she was going to make me do it again and again."

The couple got fed up and spoke directly with their bank. Now, Tony says, his bank account has been locked and he has to pay thousands of dollars for the fake checks.

"I'm having to work more shifts at work to be able to get caught up and [Tony is] doing a lot as well," Christina said.

"I feel like an idiot," Tony said.

How to avoid scams and keep your funds safe

Unfortunately, banks don't usually refund money if you are a victim of a check scam. Fake check scams take many forms, from promises of a phony loan to being hired for a fake job to being "overpaid" for something you sell.

What many have in common is that you're given a bad check to cash and told you must buy and provide gift cards in exchange. Since banks often make deposited funds available quickly, you may think the money is safely in your account — but it's not.