Close-up of a pen writing on a check.

Prevent Check Fraud and Protect Your Mail

The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are seeing an increase in check fraud, with a significant volume enabled through mail theft.

Check fraud schemes often involve the interception and alteration of legitimate checks, resulting in millions of dollars in losses each year for consumers and businesses. One in five Americans have or know someone who has been affected by check fraud, according to a recent ICBA (Independent Community Bankers of America) poll conducted by Morning Consult.

Here are some tips to protect your checks and your mail:

  • Send checks securely using the letter slots inside your Post Office or by handing them directly to a letter carrier. Pick up your mail promptly and avoid leaving it in your mailbox overnight.
  • Sign up for Informed Delivery at USPS.com to receive daily email notifications of incoming mail and packages.
  • Use pens with indelible black ink and avoid leaving blank spaces on checks to reduce the risk of alteration.
  • Monitor your accounts regularly using online or mobile banking and verify that checks reach their intended recipient(s).

Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Check Fraud

  • Report fraudulent activity to Timberland Bank immediately and request copies of altered or counterfeit checks for your records.
  • Provide law enforcement with copies of fraudulent checks and details about how, when, and where the fraud occurred to assist their investigation.

Understanding Internet Safety

We strive daily to guard your information from fraudsters and thieves. Here are a few tips to help us keep your personal information safe and secure.

Practice Safe Checks

With check fraud on the rise, now is the perfect time to think about check safety. Learn all about check safety with the American Bankers Association's Practice Safe Checks campaign.