The Grant County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind residents of the growing concern surrounding check washing and checks being stolen from the mail.

What is check washing? 📝

Check washing occurs when criminals steal checks, often from the mail, and use chemicals or other methods to remove and alter information, such as the payee’s name or dollar amount. The altered checks are then fraudulently cashed or deposited.

Unfortunately, even checks mailed for routine payments, such as utility bills, credit cards, or other expenses, can become targets.

💡 HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF?

✅ Avoid mailing checks whenever possible. Consider electronic payments, online bill pay, automatic withdrawals, or paying in person.

✅ Use secure payment methods. Whenever possible, pay directly through a trusted company’s official website or payment system.

✅ Monitor your bank accounts regularly. Watch for checks clearing for unexpected amounts or being deposited by someone other than the intended recipient.

✅ If you must mail a check, take it directly to a post office rather than leaving it in your residential mailbox or an unsecured location.

✅ Report suspicious activity immediately. If you believe a check has been stolen or altered, contact your financial institution and your local law enforcement.

⚠️ OUR RECOMMENDATION: IF THERE IS ANOTHER WAY TO MAKE A PAYMENT, USE IT!

While mailing checks has been a common practice for decades, criminals continue to find ways to exploit the mail system. Taking a few extra precautions can help prevent significant financial losses and the frustration of dealing with fraud.

Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbors, especially those who regularly mail checks to pay their bills.

Grant County Sheriff’s Office