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Check Fraud On Rise In Westchester: Often Stolen From Mail, Altered, Police Say

Authorities in Westchester are warning residents of an increase in "check washing," a scheme where checks are stolen from the mail and altered by criminals. 

A village in Westchester is experiencing a rise in "check washing" schemes. 

A village in Westchester is experiencing a rise in "check washing" schemes. 

Photo Credit: Canva/albln

The warning was issued on Wednesday, Feb. 28 by the Village of Mamaroneck Police Department, which is currently investigating a rise in check fraud. 

According to the department, the "check washing" schemes consist of criminals stealing mail in bulk looking for checks made payable to recipients. Once they find such a check, they will use chemicals to remove the payee and original dollar amount and rewrite a higher dollar amount. 

The criminals will also alter the payee to their own account, which is usually connected to a fake identity. 

To protect against such schemes, the department issued the following tips: 

  • Use online banking options for paying bills when possible;
  • Use a black ink gel pen for writing checks and drop off the payment inside your local post office;
  • Keep your checking account balance with just enough funds to cover your bills;
  • Regularly check your account for any suspicious transactions;
  • If you are a victim of check washing, report the incident to US Postal Inspection at 1-877-876-2455, as well as your bank. 

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