Checking Accounts

There are several types of thefts involving checks. Due to advanced technology, the use of scanners and copiers make it possible for criminals to duplicate your checks and signatures to a point that most check cashing establishments cannot distinguish a fake from a real check. Criminals also wash checks, a process of removing handwritten ink from a check to re-write the payee and dollar amount line, to withdraw money from your account.

Theft of Checks

Checks are frequently taken from victims' mailboxes and in burglaries. When the checks are taken in a burglary, many times the criminal may take checks from the middle or back of the book so that the victim may not realize they are missing until the money has cleared their account.

Protection

Although it is difficult to prevent there are ways to limit the extent or possibility of becoming a victim of check crimes.

• When ordering new checks, if you do not receive them in the specified time, notify your bank immediately.
• Check your bank statements against your ledgers regularly.
• Shred any misprinted checks you are not planning on using and any old accounts not being used.
• Mail bills from a U.S. postal mailbox, not your residential mailbox.

Technology has made it very easy to make your own checks at home. This process has also enabled criminals to make their own checks with your name, account number, and bank information. It is important to protect your banking information. Be cautious of who you write checks to and how they are delivered. A check has all of your banking information imprinted on it and offers a criminal direct access to your account details.

If your check was stolen from the mail, you must also file a report with the United States Postal Service. LVMPD still needs a report filed, as there is often overlapping investigations relating to Identity and Mail Theft.

What We Need

If you had a check stolen or fraudulent checks made, we need the following information:

• Certified copies or original checks
• Location of check cashing
• Date and time check was cashed
• Dollar amount of loss
• Whether or not you were reimbursed
• Manner of theft, if known
• Do you know the name on the check or have a suspect in mind?

Non-Sufficient Funds

If you are a victim of a Non-Sufficient Funds check, please contact the Clark County District Attorney’s Bad Check Unit. Their website contains contact information, prevention tips, and available signage.

ACH Debit (Electronic Check/Debit)

Similar to the other checking problems, criminals can use your bank info to conduct purchases. If this occurs, you will need the following information:

• Location of transaction
• Date and time of transaction
• Merchant information
• Dollar amount of loss
• Manner of theft
• Was there any shipping or was it face to face?

There has been a dramatic increase in these types of transactions. Since businesses will accept these as payment, it is very important to monitor your bank accounts.

ACH for DMV

As part of identity theft, it is common for criminals to obtain a new driver’s license. You may not know this occurs until you receive a notice from the Department of Motor Vehicles. If this occurs, please contact DMV and complete a report. We also need a report, as this action is part of an identity theft. Please review our Identity Theft section for more information.