Stopping check fraud can be as simple as switching pens

Check fraud is an "oldie-but-goodie" type of identity theft crime. While high tech tactics such as phishing get all the media attention, check fraud continues to be one of the top identity theft methods used by thieves. One check fraud trick is "check washing" where a thief uses chemicals
to erase ink from checks to either increase the amount or change the
name.

How can you stop check washing? Take a few minutes to visit a blog called Schneier or Security. This blog is run by Bruce Schneier, a security guru and author. According to a recent post, stopping check washing can be as simple as switching pens. When writing on checks, black ink is better to use than blue and gel pens are better than ballpoint. Scroll down to read the fascinating reader comments, tips and stories of check washing crimes.

Tagged as: Bruce Schneier, check forgery, check fraud, check washing, erase ink, fraud, identity theft, ink, pen choice, phishing, Schneier on Security, security guru

Emily Peters