Banks need better security to prevent check fraud

The banks’ handling of check fraud cases is also problematic, a reader writes. Investigations can last six months or longer and communication is sorely lacking. (stock.adobe.com)

As a retiree on a fixed income who was robbed of $9,900 in a checking scam, I have read with interest the Sun-Times’ stories on the increase in “check washing” incidents stemming from U.S. Postal Service robberies.

The newspaper has rightfully scrutinized postal security, but I would like to draw attention to another institution that needs scrutiny: banks. Banks do not have adequate software to detect fraudulent check alteration when electronic banking is used.