The Rise of Check Washing…How to Protect Yourself

As part of our ongoing efforts to keep you informed about potential threats, we want to raise awareness about an increasingly common form of fraud known as check washing. Check washing costs U.S. consumers, businesses, and financial institutions an estimated $815 million annually.

What is Check Washing?

Check washing is a type of fraud where criminals steal checks from mailboxes and use chemicals to remove the original details, such as the payee's name and the amount. They then rewrite the check to themselves or an accomplice for a higher amount, draining funds from the victim's account.

In some cases, fraudsters go beyond altering checks, using the personal information they obtain from checks and bills to commit identity theft. This can lead to fraudulent loans, the creation of counterfeit checks, or even the production of fake IDs and passports in the victims' names.

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Use Secure Mailboxes:
   Avoid placing outgoing mail in unsecured home mailboxes. Instead, drop checks in official USPS mailboxes or take them directly to the post office.
2. Opt for Electronic Payments:
   Whenever possible, use online bill pay or electronic transfers through our secure Online Banking platform. This eliminates the risk of physical checks being stolen. Automated payments: Instead of writing checks for recurring or one-time payments, customers can also use ACH and automatic bill pay.
3. Monitor Your Account Regularly:
   Keep a close eye on your bank statements and check for unauthorized transactions on our Mobile Banking App. Report any suspicious activity immediately.
4. Use Gel Pens for Writing Checks:
   If you must send a physical check, write with a gel pen, as the ink is less likely to be washed off than standard ballpoint pen ink.
5. Request Positive Pay Services for Businesses:
   For added protection, we offer Positive Pay for businesses, a fraud detection service where we match the checks you issue with those presented for payment, ensuring they are not altered.

Tips to Avoid Check Washing:

• Deposit checks promptly and follow up if they aren't cashed in a timely manner.
• Use black gel ink when writing checks, as it bonds with the paper and is harder to alter.
• Specify the payee by writing checks to a person or business, never to "cash." Fill in all lines completely.
• Store checks securely to prevent theft.
• Bring in delivered mail daily or use a P.O. box for secure storage if you're unable to.
• Use informed delivery to track mail and ensure it's delivered.
• Report unfamiliar charges promptly if you see anything suspicious on your bank statement.
• Shred or destroy old checks and statements after 30 days to prevent misuse.

What to Do if You Suspect Check Washing:

If you believe you've been a victim of check washing, contact us immediately at 1.866.727.5325 so we can assist in safeguarding your account.