How to Prevent Check Washing

Check washing is a common form of fraud where criminals steal checks from the mail and erase the handwritten ink to alter the amount and recipient. This can result in significant financial losses for individuals and businesses. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to prevent check washing and protect yourself from this type of fraud.

Use a Gel Pen

One of the easiest ways to prevent check washing is to use a gel pen to write your checks. Gel ink is much more resistant to tampering than traditional ballpoint ink. This is because gel ink is absorbed into the paper fibers, making it difficult for criminals to erase or alter the writing.

Secure Your Mailbox

Another way to prevent check washing is to secure your mailbox. Make sure that your mailbox is locked and only accessible by you or someone you trust. If you are sending checks through the mail, use a secure mailbox or drop them off at the post office. This will prevent criminals from stealing your checks and using them for fraudulent purposes.

Use Check Security Features

Many checks come with built-in security features that can help prevent check washing. These features include watermarks, security threads, and microprinting. When you order checks, make sure to choose ones that have these security features. This will make it more difficult for criminals to alter or replicate your checks.

Monitor Your Bank Account

One of the best ways to prevent check washing is to monitor your bank account regularly. Keep an eye out for any unusual transactions, such as checks that you did not write or deposits that you did not make. If you notice anything suspicious, contact your bank immediately. They can help you take steps to prevent further fraud and protect your account.

Shred Your Documents

Another way to prevent check washing is to shred any documents that contain sensitive information. This includes old checks, bank statements, and credit card offers. Criminals can use this information to steal your identity and commit fraud. By shredding these documents, you can protect yourself from check washing and other types of fraud.

Use Online Bill Pay

Using online bill pay can also help prevent check washing. When you use online bill pay, you do not have to write a physical check, which eliminates the risk of check theft. Online bill pay also allows you to monitor your account in real-time and detect any fraudulent activity.

Be Careful When Writing Your Checks

When you write your checks, be careful to fill out all the fields correctly. Make sure that the amount and recipient are accurate, and that there are no blank spaces on the check. Criminals can use these blank spaces to add extra numbers or names, which can result in check washing.

Use Positive Pay

Positive pay is a service offered by many banks that can help prevent check washing. With positive pay, you submit a list of checks that you have written to your bank. When a check is presented for payment, the bank checks it against your list. If the check does not match your list, it is flagged as suspicious and not paid.

Report Any Suspicious Activity

If you suspect that you have been the victim of check washing or any other type of fraud, report it to the authorities immediately. Contact your bank and the police to report the incident. The sooner you report the fraud, the better chance you have of recovering any lost funds.

Conclusion

Check washing is a serious threat that can result in significant financial losses. By following these tips, you can protect yourself from this type of fraud and keep your money safe. Remember to use a gel pen, secure your mailbox, use check security features, monitor your bank account, shred your documents, use online bill pay, be careful when writing your checks, use positive pay, and report any suspicious activity.