By Amy Miller, AFC with America Saves in partnership with the American Association of Credit Union Leagues, America’s Credit Unions, and TruStage.
Finding out you’ve been a victim of check fraud can feel overwhelming.
Maybe a check was stolen from the mail. Maybe your account shows a payment you never authorized. Or maybe you deposited a check that turned out to be fake.
No matter how it happened, one thing is true: acting quickly matters. The sooner you respond, the better your chance of limiting financial loss, protecting your account, and preventing further fraud.
If you think you’re a victim of check fraud, here are the steps to take.
Step 1: Contact Your Financial Institution Immediately
Your first call should be to your financial institution. Tell them:
- What happened
- Which transaction looks suspicious
- When you noticed it
Your financial institution may be able to:
- Place a stop payment
- Freeze your account
- Open an investigation
- Provide information needed to file a report with the authorities
Do not wait to “see if it clears up.” Time matters.
Step 2: Review Your Account for Other Fraud
Fraud may not stop at one transaction. Look through recent account activity for:
- Other unfamiliar checks
- Unusual withdrawals
- New account changes you did not make
Review at least the last 30–60 days if possible. If your account information was stolen, criminals may attempt additional fraud.
Step 3: Document Everything
Keep records of:
- Suspicious transactions
- Check numbers
- All related communications including calls, emails or text messages related to the fraud
- Police or fraud reports
Write down dates, names, and case numbers. This documentation can help if you need to dispute charges or file reports.
Step 4: File a Fraud Report
Depending on the situation, you may need to report the fraud to local authorities or other agencies. This can be especially important if:
- Mail was stolen
- Identity theft is involved
- A scammer targeted you online
Ask your financial institution what reports they recommend. Keep copies of everything.
Step 5: Secure Your Account
If your account information has been compromised, it may recommend that you open a new account.
Take additional steps like:
- Changing online banking passwords
- Updating PINs
- Reviewing linked payment accounts
If you use the same password elsewhere, update those too.
Step 6: Replace Compromised Checks
If physical checks were stolen:
- Report the missing check numbers
- Store remaining checks securely
- Order new checks if needed
Do not continue using compromised check numbers.
Step 7: Watch for Identity Theft
A stolen check contains personal information. Watch for:
- Unfamiliar credit activity
- Unexpected bills
- Collection notices
- New account openings
Continue monitoring your financial accounts regularly.
If You Deposited a Fake Check
If you deposited a fraudulent check as part of a scam, contact your financial institution immediately. Explain what happened. Even if the money appeared in your account, it may later be removed if the check is fake.
Remember: If someone asks you to send money back after depositing a check, that is a major warning sign.
How to Protect Yourself Going Forward
After fraud happens, it’s normal to feel cautious.
Moving forward:
- Monitor your account weekly
- Use account alerts
- Mail checks securely
- Keep checks stored safely
- Be cautious with unexpected payments
- Ask questions before acting
Fraud can happen to anyone. What matters most is how quickly you respond and what you do next.
Final Takeaway
Check fraud can be frustrating and stressful, but you are not powerless. Quick action can help protect your money and reduce the impact. Knowledge is one of your strongest tools. Download this action guide for step-by-step help on what to do, who to contact, and how to protect your money moving forward.
Want to continue building your financial confidence and awareness? Take the America Saves Pledge today! We’ll send you tips, tools, and resources to help you save for what matters most to you.
If you suspect you have been the victim of fraud, or have any questions regarding possible fraudulent activity, please reach out to us at 605-923-1405.
