Check Washing Scam

Check washing happens when a check you wrote is stolen, most often from a mailbox. The criminals use chemicals to erase the original information from the check and fill it in with their own. The problem has grown so large that local and federal authorities have formed task forces throughout the United States. These authorities include agents from the Postal Inspection Service, U.S. attorney’s office, local police forgery units, FBI and the Secret Service.

Scammers also use the information found on checks to commit additional crimes against the check writer, this can include producing counterfeit checks in the victim’s name and creating fake ID’s and driver’s licenses, which can lead to identity and further financial theft.

How to Stay Safe

Don’t put checks in the mailbox, whenever possible pay your bills online. Mailbox theft is extremely problematic and anything you put in your mailbox can be easily stolen. If you must mail a check, take it to the post office and mail it in person. Don’t use the USPS blue mail collection boxes as these are being broken into by thieves.

Secure your mailbox, if you do send and receive checks at home consider purchasing a secure, locking mailbox and set up a security camera that monitors your mailbox.

When you purchase new checks pick them up at your bank or credit union. Don’t have them mailed to your home.

Shred any cancelled checks before throwing them away.

Log in and monitor your bank accounts regularly, report anything suspicious to your bank immediately.

Use black ink gel pens when writing a check. This type of ink is more difficult to remove.

Store your checks at home in a secure location, don’t carry your checkbook in your purse or wallet.

If you have been the victim of check washing notify your bank, the Postal Inspection Service and your local police department.