Full Notification

CHECK FRAUD AND MAIL THEFT

The Bedford Police Department would like to make the community aware of recent check frauds, possibly involving stolen mail. When mailing checks of considerable size (i.e. tax payments; mortgage checks; etc.) consider using letter slots inside your local post office or even hand deliver when possible.

Protect your checks and bank account:
• Use checks with security features, including security ink and chemically sensitive paper, to protect against check washing.
• Do not have your driver’s license or Social Security number printed on your check
• Mail your bills safely. Don’t leave mail in a mailbox overnight or drop it off for pickup on a Sunday or holiday when the post office is closed.
• Based on ink security studies, it is highly recommended that you use a gel pen. Gel ink contains tiny particles of color that are trapped into the paper, making check washing a lot more difficult.
• Strictly monitor your bank account activity. Review your bank activity for suspicious transactions as often as possible, preferably daily.

Please see the link below for further tips in preventing mail theft.
https://www.uspis.gov/tips-prevention/mail-theft/