Fraud cases in Clinton Township area traced to checks stolen from mail
CLINTON TOWNSHIP – A rash of fraudulent check cases, involving individuals intercepting checks that were placed in mailboxes, is under investigation in the Clinton Township area of Macomb County.
The Clinton Township Police Department said in its announcement that its officers have been working with other local and federal law enforcement agencies on the investigation. The individuals involved have been pulling checks from envelopes in both public and private mailboxes; then altering the checks and cashing them.
"It is difficult for police to track down these individuals because many of the checks are digitally deposited into fraudulent accounts or are sold and cashed out of state," the police department said. "Please take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from being the victim of fraud."
The methods used in the fraud incidents have included:
- Washing the check to remove the original ink, then either selling the blank or rewriting the check to someone else and for a larger amount than intended.
- Photographing the check, but altering the image to change the name and amount before attempting to cash it.
- Photographing the check and then selling the image online so a new batch of fraudulent checks can be printed with the routing and account numbers.
The Clinton Township Police Department suggests hand delivering payment for bills or checks issued to friends or family; and using online payments via secured sites for other bills.
Should a signature be required for a package to be delivered, police suggest using certified mail.
