I recently learned about another type of scam that is impacting many individuals and businesses throughout the North Shore. Check washing has been around for decades, but complaints to police departments have increased significantly in the past few years.
Check washing is a process where a thief steals a check that was made payable to someone else. Using chemicals, the ink on the check is removed and the check is rewritten to a new payee—often for a larger dollar amount. The check is then cashed and the thief is long gone before the check owner realizes they have been victimized.
The following steps may help avoid check washing.
- Use a permanent black gel pen when writing checks. Gel ink absorbs more completely into the paper, making it more difficult to wash out.
- When mailing checks, take them directly to the post office prior to the last collection time for that day. Even better- take the envelopes into the post office and deposit them inside.
- Empty your mailbox daily. Do not leave mail in a mailbox overnight.
- Monitor your bank account regularly. If your bank offers account alerts, setup an alert to be sent to you if a larger than usual transaction occurs.
- If possible, opt for electronic payments instead of paper checks. (Remember that online financial transactions depend on excellent password habits in order to be secure.)
- Use security envelopes, which make it more difficult to see the contents of your mail.
- Consider having a second account to hold funds, leaving only enough cash in your check-writing account to cover your day-to-day check writing.
- If you are traveling, have your mail held at the post office or ask a trusted person empty your mailbox daily.
The suggestions above can be helpful to avoid being a victim of check washing. However, they are not a guarantee of safety. What should you do if you find your bank account compromised?
- Contact your bank immediately. Do not wait as there may be a limited window in which to rectify the situation.
- File a police report.
- If you believe a check was stolen from your mailbox, report it to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
- Consider closing the compromised account and opening a new account.
- Monitor your credit report. Check washing can sometimes be part of a larger identity theft scheme. Monitor your credit report regularly to ensure no new accounts have been opened in your name.
If you are concerned that a family member or friend over the age of 60 is being exploited financially, please call the Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-922-2275. To learn more about elder abuse, please visit https://seniorcareinc.org/protective-services/.
Learn more about check washing at these websites.
- AARP’s Guide on Check Washing Scams: AARP offers a detailed overview of check washing scams and tips to avoid them. Read more here (https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info-2023/stop-check-washers.html).
- Experian’s Article on Check Washing: This article provides insights into how check washing works and how to protect yourself. Learn more here (https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/what-is-check-washing).
- S. Postal Inspection Service: The USPIS provides resources and support for those affected by mail-related crimes, including check washing. Visit their site (https://www.uspis.gov/news/scam-article/check-washing).
Unfortunately, there are many ways for a bad actor to steal from us. It is our responsibility to watch our accounts closely and report problems as quickly as possible. Switching to electronic banking can be more secure if proper password protocols are followed, including multi-factor authentication. Reconciling all accounts on a regular basis is another critical step in keeping money safe.
If you or someone in your life over the age of 60 is having difficulties maintaining finances, SeniorCare’s Money Management team may be able to help. Call 978-281-1750 and ask to speak with Information & Referral to learn about assistance available to older area residents and their caregivers.