What Does a Washed Check Look Like?

A washed check refers to a legitimate check that has been stolen and chemically altered to change the original payee’s name and the dollar amount for fraudulent purposes. Criminals typically acquire these checks through mail theft, often targeting mailboxes. Understanding the indicators of a washed check is important for personal financial security, helping individuals avoid becoming victims of this fraud. This type of fraud can lead to substantial financial losses for individuals, businesses, and financial institutions.

How Check Washing Alters Documents

Check washing involves criminals using common household chemicals, such as acetone, bleach, or rubbing alcohol, to remove the original ink from a stolen check. This process aims to erase the handwritten or printed payee name and the amount, while leaving pre-printed information like the bank’s routing and account numbers, and the original signature intact. After the ink dissolves, the check is dried, leaving a blank space for new fraudulent details. The objective is to create a seemingly valid check that can then be made out to the fraudster or an accomplice for a higher sum.

Visual Clues of a Washed Check

Observing the physical state of a check can reveal signs of chemical alteration. The paper might appear thin, brittle, or wavy. It could also show discoloration, fading, or streaky patterns where chemicals were applied. A chemical odor, such as bleach or nail polish remover, may also be detectable.

Inconsistencies in ink appearance are strong indicators. The edges of the payee’s name or amount might appear blurred or “feathered,” suggesting new ink was applied to a treated surface. Different shades or types of ink may be visible compared to the check’s original pre-printed elements. There might also be signs of overwriting attempting to conceal previous alterations.

The check’s design and security features can also show disturbances. Background patterns, watermarks, microprinting, or security threads might be smudged, faded, or compromised. Some security papers react to chemicals by creating stains or discoloration, making tampering evident.

Handwriting or font discrepancies between pre-printed elements and the handwritten payee and amount are red flags. An unusual difference in pen pressure or writing style can suggest multiple individuals filled out the check. Even if ink is removed, indentations from original writing may still be visible. Any misalignment or uneven spacing in the altered payee name or amount can indicate fraudulent modification.

Safeguarding Against Check Washing

Proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of check washing. When writing checks, use fraud-resistant pens with gel or permanent black ink. These inks bind with paper fibers, making them harder to wash away. For outgoing mail containing checks, drop them directly into a mail slot inside a post office or hand them to a uniformed mail carrier, instead of unsecured mailboxes or public collection boxes.

Regularly monitor bank accounts for suspicious activity. Many financial institutions offer transaction alerts, helping detect fraud early. Shredding old checks, bank statements, and other financial documents prevents criminals from using them. Exercise caution with checks from unknown sources, especially those for amounts exceeding what is owed with instructions to return a portion, to avoid scams.

Action if You Suspect a Washed Check

If you suspect a check has been washed, take immediate action. Do not attempt to cash or deposit a suspicious check, as this could result in financial liability. Instead, promptly contact your bank or the check’s issuing bank to verify legitimacy and report suspicions.

Also, contact the check’s issuer to confirm details and inform them of potential fraud. Document all relevant details: dates, amounts, and communications. If the check was received through the mail, report the incident to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For other fraud, contact local law enforcement or the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).