Washed Checks

Check washing is a type of check fraud in which a fraudster steals a real check, removes or covers the payee’s name, the amount, or both, and writes in new information.  The fraudster then cashes or deposits the altered check and takes money from the victim’s account.

How Check Washing Happens

Fraudsters often steal checks from mailboxes, collection boxes, or other unsecured mail.  A washed check can be hard to spot because it started as a real check and may have a real signature.

• Using chemicals.  The fraudster removes ink from a stolen check and prints a new name or amount.
• Erasing or covering words. The fraudster changes the check by hand.
• Making fake checks.  The fraudster copies the account number, check number, or signature to create more checks.
• Using a stolen check as written.  The fraudster may add a fake signature on the back and deposit it.

Warning Signs

• A check clears your account, but the person or business you paid never received it.
• The check image shows a different payee or amount.
• The writing, ink, spacing, or paper looks unusual.
• The signature or deposit information on the back is unfamiliar.
• Checks clear out of order, or you see duplicate or unknown withdrawals.
• Mail is missing, or your mailbox looks damaged or disturbed.

Protecting Yourself

• Use black gel ink and fill in every blank space on the check.
• Do not write private information on the memo line.
• Mail checks inside a post office or before the last pickup time.
• Do not leave checks in an unlocked mailbox.
• Collect your mail quickly and hold your mail when traveling.
• Review your accounts often and confirm that the payee received the check.
• Use electronic payment methods instead of checks.

How to Report a Washed Check

• Call your bank or credit union right away.  Report the check as fraud and ask if the payment can be stopped or the money recovered.
• Follow the bank’s or credit union’s instructions.  Complete any fraud forms and ask whether your account should be restricted, closed, or replaced.
• Report mail theft.  If the check was mailed, contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at uspis.gov/report or 1-877-876-2455.
• File other reports.  Contact local police and report the fraud to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
• Save your records.  Keep check images, envelopes, bank statements, dates, amounts, check numbers, and case numbers.
• Monitor your accounts.  Look for any charges or checks you do not recognize.

Below is a video from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service that highlights key points on washed checks: