Bothell police warn of outgoing mail theft targeting checks

Bothell police are warning residents about a disturbing increase in outgoing mail theft, with thieves targeting checks sent through the mail and altering them before cashing them.

Erin Roney, Public Information Officer for the Bothell Police Department, said investigators have recently seen multiple reports where mail never made it to its destination.

“We’re recently seeing reports and started investigating several cases where outgoing mail was stolen while it was on its way to its destination,” Roney said.

In many cases, the amount on the check stays the same, but the payee name is changed, making it easy for victims to miss the fraud when they review their bank accounts.

“Don’t just look at the amount on the check, and make sure that clears your account — you want to look at who it was paid to,” Roney said.

How residents can protect themselves from mail theft

Roney is urging people to take extra steps if they still use paper checks, and to consider switching to safer options.

She encouraged recipients to review cleared checks carefully, and not only look at the dollar amount, but also check the image of the cleared check to make sure the payee’s name is the person or business they intended to pay.

Setting up bank alerts can notify account holders when checks clear, allowing them to quickly review any suspicious transactions.

Roney also advised using electronic payments when possible.

“Consider just using electronic payment options instead of mailing a paper check,” she said.

For critical payments, Roney recommended following up a week or two later with the person or business to make sure the check arrived.

What to do if mail theft occurs

Those who believe they may be a victim of outgoing mail theft involving a check should contact their bank immediately to report suspicious or altered transactions.

They should also report it to Bothell police by calling the non-emergency line at 425-577-5656.

Roney said detectives are actively working the cases and are encouraging residents to stay vigilant about any checks they send through the mail.

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