ICBA partners with U.S. Postal Inspection Service against rising check fraud

The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) has announced a partnership with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to address the growing issue of check fraud. This collaboration will provide educational materials in bank branches, offering step-by-step guidance to help consumers protect their financial assets and respond effectively if they fall victim to check fraud.

"Community banks have long been the cornerstone of trust and security in their communities," said ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey. "By partnering with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, we are doubling down on our commitment to help consumers combat the escalating risks of check fraud. These new digital and print handouts will empower the face-to-face conversations bankers have with customers, provide actionable guidance, and reinforce the strong relationships that community banks are known for."

Check fraud typically involves intercepting and altering legitimate checks, leading to significant financial losses for both consumers and businesses each year. According to an ICBA poll conducted by Morning Consult, one in five Americans have experienced or know someone who has been affected by check fraud.

"The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting the integrity of the mail and the financial security of the American public," stated Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. "Working with ICBA strengthens our collective efforts to combat check fraud, disrupt criminal networks, and protect consumers and businesses from criminals looking to exploit them."

To prevent check fraud, ICBA and the Postal Inspection Service recommend several measures: securely sending checks using Post Office letter slots or directly handing them to a letter carrier; promptly picking up mail; contacting senders if expected mail does not arrive; requesting mail holds when out of town; signing up for Informed Delivery at USPS.com; using pens with indelible black ink on checks; avoiding blank spaces on checks; regularly monitoring accounts through online or mobile banking.

If someone becomes a victim of check fraud, they should report it immediately to their community bank, request copies of altered or counterfeit checks for records, and provide law enforcement with all relevant details about how, when, and where the fraud occurred.

For more information about this initiative or access to resources for preventing fraud, visit ICBA’s website.

The Independent Community Bankers of America aims to create an environment where community banks can thrive through advocacy, education, and innovation. Meanwhile, as one of America's oldest federal law enforcement agencies, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service continues its longstanding mission to protect postal services and maintain public trust in mail systems.