Learn how to protect yourself against check fraud

What is check fraud? Thieves steal mail from standalone Postal Service home mailboxes and then using a variety of techniques, alter checks to remove the real information and steal your money or identity. Methods include “washing” checks in chemicals to erase the original information or “cooking” checks by making a digital scan and manipulating the information. This threat is growing and scammers are becoming more aggressive. 

How to protect yourself: 

• Whenever possible, pay your bills online. Online payments are more secure than paper checks. 
  
• If you have to send a check via the mail, give your letter directly to a mail carrier or drop it off at your local post office.  Do not use free standing USPS mail boxes or leave checks in your own mailbox.  Mail theft is widespread in our area and we have received reports of USPS mailboxes repeatedly being destroyed in efforts to steal letters. 
  
• When writing a check, be sure to use a gel ink pen.  Gel ink is more difficult to “wash” and could deter a would be scammer. 
  
• Take advantage of WNYFCU’s Home Banking and Mobile Banking app to monitor your accounts! Sign up here:  https://wnyfcu.com/tools-resources/enrollment/
  
• If you believe you have been a victim of check fraud, contact us at 716-771-5000. 

For more information, check out this article from AARP: