Check Fraud Incidents Doubled From 2021 to 2023
The U.S. Postal Service reports that check washing crimes rose significantly over a two-year period.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Financial Crime
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Check fraud incidents across the United States doubled between 2021 and 2023. This rise in criminal activity highlights an ongoing challenge for the postal system.
Why it matters
The surge in fraudulent activity demonstrates the persistent vulnerability of traditional paper checks. Thieves increasingly target outdoor collection boxes to steal and alter payments for illicit gain.
The U.S. Postal Service manages the recovery of over $1 billion in counterfeit checks and money orders each year. The total volume of successful thefts remains under investigation as incidents doubled between 2021 and 2023.
The players
United States Postal Service
This federal agency is responsible for the provision of postal services in the United States and works to mitigate financial crimes involving the mail system.
The details
Scammers typically harvest checks from outdoor mailboxes before using chemical agents to strip original ink, allowing them to rewrite payee names and dollar amounts. Additionally, perpetrators scan stolen documents to produce digital reproductions that feature a victim's original signature.
Timeline
Check fraud incidents doubled between 2021 and 2023.
The Postal Service recovers $1 billion in counterfeit payments annually.
Legal Context
The recent spike in check washing mirrors broader challenges in mail-based security identified in the U.S. Postal Service annual counterfeit payment recovery data. This shift marks a departure from historic fraud patterns by utilizing sophisticated digital reproduction and chemical alteration techniques.
Residents should exercise caution when using outdoor mailboxes for sensitive financial documents. Utilizing secure indoor drop-off locations at local post offices can help prevent checks from being targeted by thieves.
The takeaway
Financial security relies heavily on vigilance when handling physical mail. Customers should consider transitioning to digital payment methods to reduce the risk of check interception and alteration.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving security risks in our Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Beltway Report.
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