The Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office says there’s an increase in check washing scams, with victims recently losing more than $46,000.
The Sheriff’s Office says scammers are stealing checks from the mail, then using chemicals to “wash” away the ink, allowing them to change the payee names and dollar amounts. A Facebook posting says in some cases, fake checks are created using scanners or copiers.
Victims typically find out only after a payment never arrives at its destination, and the bank confirms the check was altered and fraudulently cashed.
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Most scams involve checks mailed from residential mailboxes or post office drop boxes.
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Criminals intercept the mail during routing and alter the checks.
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A Culpeper Sheriff’s Office detective is actively working with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Task Force to investigate and prevent further crimes.
How to Protect Yourself:
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Use gel pens when writing checks – gel ink is more resistant to chemical removal.
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Deposit mail inside the post office or hand it directly to a mail carrier.
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Consider using online bill pay or electronic transfers when possible.
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Monitor your bank accounts regularly for unauthorized transactions.
If you suspect your mail has been tampered with or you believe you’re a victim of check fraud, contact the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
Photo: Culpeper Sheriff’s Office
