Check Your Mail - USPS Warns Against Sending Checks in the Mail

M.C. Millman

The United States Postal Service (USPS) warns against sending checks in the mail in the wake of a steady rise in check fraud incidents. 

Last year, around 680,000 check fraud reports were issued by banks. This number is up from 350,000 reports in 2021. Criminals steal checks and drain bank accounts. While the number of checks used by Americans has been rapidly declining, these criminals were especially enticed by stimulus checks issued by the government during the pandemic. 

To avoid check fraud, opt for electronic payments when possible. If you cannot avoid mailing checks, using a secure mail drop location like the inside of a post office is recommended. To avoid mail theft, be sure to promptly pick up your mail and not leave letters or packages at your door or in your mailbox. 

If you witnessed or fallen victim to mail fraud, report it to the United States Postal Inspection Service here https://www.uspis.gov/report or call 1-877-876-2455.