Protect Yourself from Check Washing: A Growing Threat

---

As digital fraud increases, traditional scams like check washing are making a comeback. Criminals are using this method to alter the details on legitimate checks, stealing money from unsuspecting individuals and businesses. Understanding this threat and taking preventative steps is crucial to protecting your finances.

What is Check Washing?

Check washing is a type of fraud where criminals steal checks, typically from mailboxes, and use chemicals to erase the ink on the check. Once the original details are removed, they rewrite the check, often increasing the amount and changing the recipient. This process allows them to cash the altered check, leaving the original payer liable for the loss.

How to Protect Yourself

While check washing is a serious concern, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Use Gel Pens When Writing Checks
Gel ink is more resistant to chemical washing than traditional ballpoint ink. This simple switch makes it harder for criminals to alter your checks.

2. Opt for Electronic Payments
Whenever possible, use digital payment methods instead of mailing paper checks. Online transfers and payment apps provide a more secure and traceable way to pay, reducing the risk of check theft and fraud.

3. Mail Checks Securely
If you must mail a check, deposit it directly at a post office or use a secure, locked mailbox. Avoid leaving checks in your home mailbox, especially overnight or over the weekend when they are more vulnerable to theft.

4. Monitor Your Bank Account
Regularly review your bank account activity to quickly detect any suspicious transactions. Early detection of a fraudulent check can help you report the issue to your bank and law enforcement before further damage is done.

5. Set Up Amount Alerts
Most banks offer email or text alerts for transactions over a certain amount. By setting up these alerts, you can stay informed and act swiftly if an unauthorized check is processed.

What to Do If You Fall Victim

If you suspect that a check has been washed or stolen, contact your bank immediately to stop payment on the check. File a report with the police, and consider freezing your accounts if additional fraud is detected. In some cases, you may also need to notify the U.S. Postal Inspection Service if the check was stolen from the mail. Check washing may seem like an old-fashioned scam, but it’s a real and growing threat. By taking a few precautionary steps and staying vigilant, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of this type of fraud.