Solvay Bank Blog

We are seeing an increase in incidents where checks mailed through public or residential mailboxes are intercepted and altered before reaching the intended recipient. Please take precautions before mailing your next payment.

What is mail check fraud — and why is it happening now?

Mail check fraud isn't new, but it has increased in recent years. Criminals often target blue USPS collection boxes on street corners as well as residential mailboxes, fishing out envelopes that contain checks. Using chemicals and other tools, they "wash" the ink off the check, effectively erasing the payee’s name and dollar amount, then rewrite the check to themselves for a much larger amount.

The result? Your payment never arrives, and you may be out hundreds or thousands of dollars while the dispute process plays out.

Utilize payment options that are safer to better protect yourself

• Electronic payments. Online bill pay, automatic payments, ACH transfers, Zelle and utilizing a digital wallet can eliminate the physical check entirely, becoming your safest option. Our team is always available to help educate our clients on how to take advantage of this option.
• Monitor your account. Regularly log in to your online banking, rather than waiting for a paper statement in the mail. Review your accounts for unexpected transactions, especially for unusual amounts. Report anything suspicious to us immediately. Check fraud has very specific regulatory timeframes that must be followed.

If you must mail a physical check

Use gel ink pens. Gel ink bonds to paper fibers, making it much harder to wash. Avoid ballpoint or felt-tip pens.

• Avoid blank spaces. Ensure your check leaves no room for criminal alterations by filling out each line completely.
• Mail at the post office counter. Hand your envelope directly to a postal worker. Don't drop it in a public collection box or residential mailbox.
• Don't leave mail in your box. Retrieve incoming mail promptly. Thieves target residential boxes for checks coming in, too.

What to do if you think you've been a victim

If you suspect a check you mailed has been intercepted or altered, act quickly:

• Contact us immediately to place a stop payment on the check.
• File a report with your local U.S. Postal Inspection Service (1-877-876-2455).
• File a police report with your local department for documentation.
• Monitor your credit and accounts closely for the next 90 days.

Protect yourself from becoming a victim

The simplest way to avoid mail check fraud is to stop mailing checks altogether wherever possible. We offer several safe, fast electronic payment options through your online account and mobile app — including bill pay, ACH transfers, Zelle and digital wallet options.

Questions? Contact Customer Relations at 315-484-2201.