Even as the use of checks declines, check fraud continues to cost people millions of dollars every year. The good news? You can protect yourself by being armed with the knowledge to spot the tricks scammers use and having a simple action plan.
Watch for These Common Scams
Knowledge is power! Scammers have several tricks up their sleeves, and knowing their tactics can help you spot trouble before it hits your wallet.
- Check washing: Scammers steal checks, use special chemicals to erase the ink, and then write in new amounts and names.
- Fake checks: After stealing someone’s account details, fraudsters create fake checks using the acquired information.
- Payment tricks: Scammers trick individuals into sending payments to the wrong place by pretending to be someone they're not.
Keep Your Information Safe
Security starts with building good habits to keep your information safe.
When it comes to physical checks:
- Store blanks somewhere safe – never leave them in your car or mailbox.
- When writing checks, use a gel pen because the ink is harder to remove, and fill out every blank space completely.
- Drop outgoing checks at the post office or a secure drop box instead of leaving them in your mailbox for pickup.
- If your checks go missing, report the loss to your financial institution right away and have them cancelled. (Same goes if your check order never made it to you!)
When it comes to your activities online:
- Create strong, unique passwords and turn on two-step verification if available. Keeping your account info safe is just as important as your physical checks.
- When depositing checks with your phone, use secure WiFi and delete photos afterward if they save to your phone.
- Be suspicious of emails or texts asking for banking information – we'll never request personal details this way.
Check Your Accounts Regularly
The best way to catch fraud early is to keep an eye on your accounts, whether that’s checking in on your Mobile App weekly or reviewing your statements each month.
Pay attention to warning signs like:
- Transactions you don't recognize, even small ones
- Checks taking longer than usual to clear
- Checks clearing in weird orders or for strange amounts
BHFCU members also have access to set up email alerts or push notifications for events like large withdrawals, low balances, and balance updates.
Time is Money
If something looks off, don't wait. Call us right away. The faster you report it, the better chance of mitigating the damage and keeping your information and money safe. We'll help you close the compromised account, get new checks and debit cards, and investigate what happened.
You’re not alone. Our dedicated fraud team is focused on one thing, keeping your information and money safe! If something looks fishy, they’ll investigate right away.
Bottom Line: Stay Alert
Preventing check fraud isn't complicated, but it does require some attention. Keep your checks safe, watch your accounts regularly, and trust your gut when something doesn't feel right.
