Check Scams

Whether you received an unexpected check in the mail, or you are writing a check yourself, it is important to know what red flags to look for before you make that deposit.

Receiving an unexpected check.

If you received a check in the mail that you know nothing about, it could possibly be a fraudulent check. Always use caution with checks you are not familiar with. If you are unsure, bring the check to the credit union to be looked at.

A check you are told to deposit.

If someone you do not know gives or sends you a check, with the intent of having you make a deposit, you are likely caught up in a scam. You may have been told you are being paid to be a mystery shopper, to have your car wrapped for advertising, or that you need to pay shipping to claim a prize. Often, you are told to deposit the check, and then send the same funds elsewhere using another payment method. These are all examples of common scams. Never attempt to deposit these checks without having them looked at by credit union staff first.

Stolen and "washed" checks.

Checks that have been stolen on their way to their destination, erased, and rewritten for new amounts or payees are called "washed" checks. Sending checks you have written through the mail can put you at risk. Some best practices in this situation are:

- Consider making your payment with your routing and account number, instead of writing a check to be mailed.

- Use duplicate checks so you have a carbon copy of the original check.

- Use your online banking to view images of checks that have cleared your account to ensure they are written to the correct payee and for the correct amount.

When in doubt, contact the credit union for assistance.

For more information, go to http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-fake-check-scams