What steps can I take to reduce the risk of being a victim of check washing?

You can:

• Drop mail inside of the post office instead of a mailbox.
• Follow up with the payee to confirm that they received your check.
• Join identity theft protection services.
• Make payments online using other means, such as e-check or mobile payments.
• Regularly check your mail. Avoid leaving mail in your mailbox overnight.
• Frequently review copies of checks, front and back, via online banking to ensure that the checks were not altered.
• Review your monthly bank statements for errors. Report errors in a timely manner. Review your account agreement or ask your bank to determine the time limits for reporting payment errors and check fraud.
• Shred checks if you receive paid checks from the bank,or secure them in a locked space. Never throw them in the trash.
• Use black gel pens to write checks to prevent certain types of check washing. Note this will not prevent all types of check fraud.
• Pick up new check orders at the bank rather than having them shipped to your residence.
• Print, rather than sign, your return name and address on your envelopes as your signature can be traced or duplicated.

Last Reviewed: April 2024