<prompt> Human: Hi PF, some friend from Europe that Ive known for 3 years wants me to hold 2,000 worth in my bank account and then give it back to them later.Would I have to pay taxes on this?  <response>: Sounds like a variation of the old hold my money for me scam.It goes like this:1. you receive a check from your overseas friend2. you deposit it in your bank3. you buy products and have them sent to him other variations of the scam have you send a refund for some kind of overpayment4. the check bounces5. you are out the amount paid for the productsAs the FTC says in Dont bank on that check Banks must make funds from deposited checks available within days, but uncovering a fake check can take them weeks. If a check you deposit bounces even after it seemed to clear youre responsible for repaying the bank. Money orders and cashiers checks can be counterfeited, too.I would avoid this deal like the plague. 