Safest way to mail a check, according to U.S. Postal Service

"Some pens are better than others if you're writing a check that will be mailed. ...check washing scams involve changing the payee names and often the dollar amounts on checks and fraudulently depositing them. Occasionally, the checks are stolen from mailboxes and washed in chemicals to remove the ink...steps individuals can take as well, including one as simple as using a gel pen to fill out checks they plan to mail.

Gel pens are harder for fraudsters to change because of the way the ink is absorbed into the paper, he said."    

This Article is From: www.al.com


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‘Check washing’ is now costing Americans over $1 billion each year, says USPIS — how to spot the threat and protect yourself from becoming a statistic

"...According to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), "check washing" fraud is inflicting substantial financial damage on Americans. Postal inspectors report intercepting more than $1 billion in fraudulent checks and money orders annually.

Despite the rise of digital financial transactions, thieves are increasingly targeting mail containing paper checks as a vulnerable point in the system. ... we explain their tactics and how to protect yourself. ... Write smarter: When completing important documents, it's recommended to utilize gel or rollerball pens with permanent blue or black ink, as this makes alteration more difficult. Ensure you complete each field thoroughly, leaving no blank spaces. ..."    

This Article is From: moneywise.com


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Check Washing Protection | Uni-ball® 207™ Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Pack Of 4

"uni Super Ink technology forms a strong bond with the paper, preventing document fraud and check washing ..."    

This Article is From: Amazon


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