Due to a recent wave of fraud attempts in the area, local businesses are being encouraged to exercise caution when mailing checks.

A traveling group of scammers are stealing checks from the mailboxes of business, residents, and potentially at the post office. Chief Financial Officer at Louisiana National Bank, Brandon Norris, mentioned that there have been numerous customers who have contacted the bank in regards to losing money from the issue. Norris explained how this is happening.

“Businesses seem to be having their checks stolen from the mail. They issued a check to one of their vendors, to an employee, have put it in the mail. Apparently someone is stealing those checks, reproducing them with what’s called washing. Which means they’re are taking the check, taking the ink off the check and putting in different amounts, different payees and stealing the money.” – Brandon Norris, CFO Louisiana National Bank

For businesses that are looking for added protection from scammers, Norris gave tips on how to avoid being targeted.

“Obviously, not issuing paper checks, moving more money electronically through A-C-H electronic funds transfers or direct deposit for employee payrolls. Most banks offer positive pay, which is an electronic system that matches up a list of checks that are authorized by the business with the check being presented,” said Norris. 

Norris also advised that businesses and individuals check their bank accounts daily and immediately report suspicious activity to the bank.