We want to bring to your attention the alarming rise in checkwashing and check theft scams targeting paper checks sent through the mail.
The United States Postal Inspection Service reports recovering more than $1 BILLION in fraudulent checks and money orders each year.
If you've mailed a check that was paid, but the recipient never received it, criminals may have intercepted and stolen it.
Here's how these scams typically work: fraudsters use chemicals to "wash" the checks, allowing them to alter the amount or make themselves the payee. then, the scammer deposits or cashes the modified checks, ultimately stealing your hard-earned money.
To safeguard your mail and finances, we urge you to take the following precautions:
Protecting Your Mail:
- Retrieve your mail promptly after delivery; avoid leaving it unattended in your mailbox overnight.
- If you're planning to be away from home, request the post office to hold your mail until your return.
- Sign up for informed delivery at USPS.com to receive daily email notifications of incoming mail and packages.
- Contact the sender if you're expecting mail but haven't received it.
- Consider using security envelopes to conceal the contents of your mail.
- Utilize the letter slots inside your local Post Office to send mail securely, instead of dropping it in the stand-alone mailboxes
Protecting Your Checks:
- Use pens with indelible black ink to make it harder for criminals to alter your checks.
- Avoid leaving blank spaces in the payee or amount lines.
- Refrain from including personal details like your Social Security number, credit card information, driver's license number, or phone number on checks.
- Access copies of your checks through mobile or online banking to ensure they haven't been altered.
- Review your bank activity and statements for any discrepancies
- Protect your account information by signing up for e-statements to review account activity electronically
- Consider using electronic payment methods such as e-checks, ACH automatic payments, and other mobile payment options.
- Follow up with payees to confirm receipt of your checks.
What to Do if You're a Victim:
If you suspect you've fallen victim to check washing or theft scams, take immediate action by filing a report with:
- Your bank and request copies of all fraudulent checks
- Your local police department
- The United States Postal Inspection Service at uspis.gov/report or by calling 1-877-876-2455.
Your safety and security are of utmost importance to us. By staying vigilant and implementing these protective measures, we can help avoid check fraud.
Please reach out to your local Great Oaks Bank if you have any questions, or call us at (478) 374-4754