Check Washing/Altered Checks Resulting from Mailbox Theft – Protecting Yourself From Financial Fraud
In today's digital age, many people assume that financial fraud is limited to online scams, phishing emails, and fraudulent websites. However, there are still some old-fashioned scams that can result in significant financial losses, and one of them is check washing. Check washing is a type of financial fraud that involves altering checks to change the payee names and dollar amounts. The scammers then deposit these checks fraudulently, resulting in significant financial losses for the victims.
Check-washing scams can occur in several ways, but the most common method is stealing checks from mailboxes. Once the scammers have access to the checks, they use chemicals to remove the ink and alter the payee names and dollar amounts. They may also use copiers or scanners to print fake copies of the altered checks, making it difficult for the victims to detect the fraud until it is too late.
To protect yourself from check washing and other types of financial fraud, there are several steps that you can take. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Deposit mail at your local post office or in blue collection boxes before the last pickup of the day
One of the most effective ways to prevent check-washing scams is to deposit your mail at your local post office or in blue collection boxes before the last pickup of the day. This way, your mail will not sit in your mailbox overnight, making it less vulnerable to theft. If you're unsure about the last pickup time, you can check with your local post office or visit their website to find out.
2. Never leave mail in your mailbox overnight
Another important step to protect yourself from check washing is to never leave mail in your mailbox overnight. This is especially important if you live in an area with high crime rates or if your mailbox is easily accessible. Scammers can easily steal your mail and alter your checks, resulting in significant financial losses.
3. When going on vacation, have your mail held at the Post Office or have it picked up by a friend or neighbor daily
If you're going on vacation, it's important to take steps to protect your mail from theft. You can either have your mail held at the post office until you return or have a friend or neighbor pick it up daily. This way, your mail will not sit in your mailbox for an extended period, making it less vulnerable to theft and check-washing scams.
4. Use gel pens or specialized check-writing pens
One way to make it difficult for scammers to alter your checks is to use gel pens or specialized check-writing pens. These pens use pigments that are more difficult to remove than regular ink, making it harder for scammers to alter your checks. You can find these pens at most office supply stores, and they are relatively inexpensive.
5. Check your bank statements regularly
Finally, it's important to check your bank statements regularly to detect any unauthorized transactions or altered checks. If you notice any suspicious activity, contact your bank immediately to report the fraud and take steps to protect your account.
By taking these steps, you can protect yourself from financial fraud and ensure that your hard-earned money is safe!
Source: www.uspis.gov/scam-article/check-washing