Kaufman County Sheriff David Byrnes issued a warning to local businesses and citizens in Kaufman County. Byrnes warned “that check fraud is a growing problem in our county” and “that counterfeit check writing is on the rise.”
Kaufman County Sheriff David Byrnes issued a warning to local businesses and citizens in Kaufman County. Byrnes warned “that check fraud is a growing problem in our county” and “that counterfeit check writing is on the rise.”
During the holiday season, police around the country experience an uptick in crime. A press release from the KC Sheriff's Office states, “Check fraud is one of the fastest growing financial problems in our society today. The thieves primarily target convenience stores, grocery stores, and other check cashing businesses because they have fewer restrictions than banks.”
Some tips from Kaufman County Sheriff's Office:
- Limit the amount of personal information on your checks; do not include your social security, driver’s license or telephone numbers on your check. A criminal can use this information to literally steal your identity by applying for credit card or loans in your name, or even open a new checking account.
- Check your account often to see what checks have cleared. As for commercial businesses, contact the bank to verify the validity of the check you are cashing.
- Order your checks with chemically-sensitive paper.
- When you receive a check order, check to make sure that they are all there.
- Contact your bank as soon as you notice something wrong. The sooner you let your bank know there is a problem, the better your chances of getting your money back.
The press release concluded with, “It is widely believed that businesses are the primary targets of check fraud professionals, especially by organized rings of criminals. When it comes to counterfeiting and alteration, payroll checks appear to be a favorite although all forms of business checks are targets from time to time and all forms of fraud techniques are practiced as well. Do not hesitate to call the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office if you believe you have been the target of identity theft.”
Stay alert this holiday season. When shopping, try not to become too distracted and keep a close eye on your belongings in your cart. Lock your vehicle doors at all times and hide personal belongings from sight. Watch your bank account online or a by using your bank's mobile app. Stolen identities and credit/debit cards can be used for online purchases. Shop online only at trusted sites. As Sheriff Byrnes said, contact your bank as soon as possible with any irregularities.
