Iowa State Bank is proud to join forces with the Independent Community Bankers of America (R) in partnership with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service on an initiative to help customers protect themselves from the growing threat of check fraud.

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 American have or know someone who has been affected by check fraud, according to a recent ICBA poll conducted by Morning Consult.

Although digital payments offer additional security, sometimes making a payment by check is unavoidable. Follow these tips to help protect against fraud:
Tips to Prevent Check Fraud and Protect 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.
Additional Tips to Protect Checks
  • Use pens with indelible black ink and avoid leaving blank spaces on checks to reduce the risk of alteration.
  • Monitor your account regularly using online or mobile banking and verify that checks reach their intended recipient(s).
Step to Take if You Are a Victim of Check Fraud
  • Report fraudulent activity to your 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.
This information is provided by Iowa State Bank in partnership with the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.