Midwest Bank (Illinois)

10/20/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/20/2026 03:42

Check Fraud: Why It Still Happens and How to Protect Yourself

Whether you write checks regularly or only use them once in a while, it's important to understand how check fraud happens and what you can do to help protect your account.

What Is Check Fraud?

Check fraud happens when someone uses a check or checking account information without permission. This may involve stealing a check, changing the amount or payee, creating counterfeit checks, or using a fake check as part of a scam.

Check fraud may include:

  • Stolen checks
  • Altered check amounts
  • Changed payee names
  • Counterfeit checks
  • Fake cashier's checks
  • Mobile deposit scams
  • Overpayment scams
  • Checks written from a compromised account

Because checks include important account information, they should always be handled carefully.

Common Ways Check Fraud Happens

Fraudsters use several methods to commit check fraud. Some involve physical checks, while others involve scams that pressure you to deposit or send money.

Common examples include:

  • Stolen mail: Checks are taken from a mailbox before they reach the intended person or business.
  • Check washing: A fraudster changes the payee name or amount on a check.
  • Counterfeit checks: A fake check is created using stolen account information.
  • Fake check scams: A scammer sends you a check and asks you to send money back before the check clears.
  • Overpayment scams: A buyer "accidentally" sends too much money and asks you to return the difference.
  • Mobile deposit scams: A scammer asks you to deposit a check and transfer funds elsewhere.

If someone sends you a check and asks you to return part of the money, buy gift cards, send a wire, or use a payment app, it may be a scam.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Check fraud is not always easy to spot right away. A check may look real, and funds may appear in your account before the check is fully verified. That does not always mean the check is legitimate.

Be cautious if:

  • You receive a check from someone you do not know.
  • A buyer sends more money than agreed.
  • Someone asks you to send money back after depositing a check.
  • You are told to act quickly or keep the transaction secret.
  • A check arrives unexpectedly.
  • The check amount seems too good to be true.
  • You notice a check number, payee, or amount you do not recognize.
  • Your account balance changes because of a check you did not write.

If something feels unusual, take time to verify before depositing the check or sending money.

How to Help Protect Yourself

A few simple habits can help reduce your risk of check fraud and protect your checking account.

To help protect yourself:

  • Store checks in a secure place.
  • Never leave blank checks in your vehicle, desk, or unsecured area.
  • Use permanent ink when writing checks.
  • Fill out all check fields completely.
  • Avoid writing checks payable to "cash."
  • Review your account activity regularly through online and mobile banking.
  • Set up account alerts to help monitor withdrawals and transactions.
  • Shred old checks, statements, and financial documents before throwing them away.
  • Do not share your account or routing number unless necessary.
  • Be cautious when accepting checks from people you do not know.

You can also visit Midwest Bank's Fraud Prevention resources for more tips and tools to help protect your accounts.

Be Careful When Mailing Checks

Mail theft is one way fraudsters may gain access to checks. If you need to mail a check, take extra precautions.

Consider these tips:

  • Place outgoing checks in a secure mailbox or take them directly to the post office.
  • Avoid leaving checks in your mailbox overnight.
  • Pick up your mail promptly.
  • Consider using digital payment options when appropriate.
  • Watch your account to confirm when a mailed check clears.

Taking these steps can help reduce the chance of your check being stolen or altered before it reaches the recipient.

What to Do If You Suspect Check Fraud

If you notice a check you did not write, a changed amount, or suspicious activity on your account, act quickly.

Take these steps:

  • Review your recent account activity.
  • Save any related documents, images, messages, or receipts.
  • Contact Midwest Bank immediately.
  • Do not send money back to anyone if you are unsure a check is legitimate.
  • Continue monitoring your account for additional activity.
  • Visit your nearest Midwest Bank location if you need in-person support.

The sooner you report suspicious activity, the sooner our team can help you review the situation and take the next steps.

Midwest Bank Is Here to Help

At Midwest Bank, we know fraud can feel stressful and confusing. Whether you received a suspicious check, believe a check was stolen, or noticed an unfamiliar transaction on your account, you do not have to handle it alone.

Our team is here to help you protect your account, review suspicious activity, and take action as quickly as possible.

Suspect Check Fraud?

If you suspect check fraud, contact Midwest Bank, visit your nearest Midwest Bank location, or explore our Fraud Prevention resources for more information on ways to help safeguard your accounts.

Midwest Bank is a Member FDIC.

Midwest Bank (Illinois) published this content on October 20, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 20, 2026 at 09:42 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]