We are aware of a social engineering scam circulating where someone is calling customers and introducing themselves as an officer of the bank. The individual on the phone is requesting online banking usernames, passwords, and security codes.
Please know we will never ask you for this information. If you receive a call from the bank where they are requesting this information, please hang up and notify us immediately.
Please know we will never ask you for this information. If you receive a call from the bank where they are requesting this information, please hang up and notify us immediately.
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How to Protect Yourself from Check Washing and Mail Theft Scams
Did you know that check washing and mail theft scams cost Americans over $1 billion each year? Criminals are increasingly targeting paper checks sent through the mail, altering them, and stealing money from unsuspecting victims. Here’s how these scams work—and more importantly, how you can protect yourself.
What Is Check Washing?
Check washing is a type of fraud where criminals steal checks from the mail and use chemicals to erase the ink. This allows them to:
Change the payee name
Alter the amount
Deposit or cash the altered check as if they were the original recipient
If you mailed a check that was cashed but the recipient never received it, check washing could be to blame.
Tips to Protect Your Mail
Criminals often steal mail directly from mailboxes. Follow these steps to reduce your risk:
Retrieve your mail promptly – Don’t leave it in your mailbox overnight.
Use the Post Office – Drop outgoing mail in the letter slots inside the Post Office.
Hold your mail – If you're out of town, ask the USPS to hold it until you return.
Track incoming mail – Sign up for Informed Delivery at USPS.com to get alerts.
Contact senders – If expected mail doesn’t arrive, notify the sender.
Use security envelopes – These help conceal the contents of your mail.
How to Protect Your Checks
Checks can be particularly vulnerable. Here are simple precautions to help prevent check fraud:
Use indelible black ink – Harder for criminals to wash.
Don’t leave blank spaces – Fill out all lines completely.
Avoid personal details – Never write sensitive info like SSNs or phone numbers on checks.
Monitor your accounts – Regularly review bank activity and statements.
Check endorsements – Ensure paid checks are correctly endorsed.
Consider digital payments – Use e-checks, ACH, or mobile payment apps for added security.
Confirm receipt – Follow up with the payee to ensure they received your check.
What To Do If You're a Victim
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by check fraud or mail theft:
Report to your bank – Request copies of any fraudulent checks.
Contact local police – File a police report.
Alert the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Visit USPIS.gov/report or call 1-877-876-2455.
Stay Vigilant
Postal Inspectors work hard to keep our mail safe, but your awareness and action are key. By taking these simple steps, you can help protect your finances and stop fraud before it starts.