Check Washing & Mail Fraud: What Nebraska Customers Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• Check washing is a growing fraud where stolen checks are altered and cashed
• Mailboxes and drop boxes are common targets
• Digital payments are the safest way to protect yourself

What Is Check Washing?

Check washing is when a stolen check is chemically altered and rewritten for a different amount or recipient.

How it happens:

• Checks are stolen from mail
• Details are removed and changed
• The check is deposited before you notice

Because checks include your account and routing number, one stolen check can expose your financial information.

Why It’s Increasing

Fraudsters often target:

• Mailboxes
• Drop boxes after pickup
• Mailed bill payments

Mailing checks creates opportunity, and cases are rising across the Midwest.

How to Protect Yourself

Be cautious with mail

• Don’t leave checks overnight
• Avoid late drop-offs
• Use the post office when possible

Write checks securely

• Use gel ink
• Fill in all lines

Monitor your account

• Set up alerts
• Check transactions regularly

Skip the Mail (Safer Option)

The best protection is avoiding mailed checks.

Use:

• Online Bill Pay
• ACH transfers
• HB Mobile App

Digital payments remove the risk entirely.

If You Suspect Fraud

• Contact Heartland Bank
• Review transactions
• Report to USPS

Acting fast helps protect your account.

Protecting What Matters Most

Fraud is increasing, but simple steps can make a big difference. At Heartland Bank, we’re here to help you stay secure every step of the way.

LEARN MORE | Fraud Prevention Resource Center