The Sioux County Sheriff’s Office is echoing a warning from the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office about an increase in check fraud tied to mail theft.
In a social media post, Sioux County deputies thanked Plymouth County officials for highlighting the issue and said they are also seeing a rise in this type of activity locally. Law enforcement officials say fraudsters are stealing checks from mailboxes, USPS collection boxes, and during delivery, then using the information to alter or counterfeit checks and access sensitive financial data.
The Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to take steps to protect their mail, including picking up mail promptly after delivery, using USPS Hold Mail services when traveling, and signing up for USPS Informed Delivery to track incoming mail and packages.
Officials also recommend taking precautions when writing and mailing checks, such as using indelible black ink, avoiding blank spaces, and monitoring bank accounts closely for suspicious activity. Electronic payment options like online banking, ACH payments, and e-checks may also help reduce the risk of fraud.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by mail theft-related check fraud is encouraged to contact their bank immediately and report the incident to local law enforcement. Reports can also be filed with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov, and suspected mail theft should be reported to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Residents can find additional information and fraud prevention resources through the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
