Check washing may sound harmless, but it's anything but. This classic form of fraud is making a comeback, targeting unsuspecting individuals and businesses through something as routine as mailing a check. At First Commonwealth, we're committed to helping you stay one step ahead of scams. That's why we're offering free fraud-prevention pens at all our Financial Centers—yours to take and use whenever you're writing a check.

What Is Check Washing?

Check washing happens when someone steals a legitimate check—often right from a mailbox—and uses household chemicals to "wash" away the ink. Once the check is blank again, the fraudster rewrites it to themselves for a higher amount and cashes it, leaving your account vulnerable and your finances at risk.

Who's at Risk?

Anyone who mails checks is a potential target. Criminals often look for outgoing mail with visible envelopes addressed to utility companies, service providers, or even holiday cards—they know these are likely to contain checks. Businesses that send checks in bulk are also prime targets.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • Use High-Security Pens: Regular ballpoint pen ink can be easily erased during check washing. Our free pens use Super Ink™ technology, which bonds with paper to resist water, fading, and chemical tampering. That means once it's written, it stays written.
  • Bring Mail Inside the Post Office: Whenever possible, drop your mail off inside a secure USPS location rather than leaving it in your mailbox or a public mailbox overnight.
  • Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your account activity online or through our mobile app. Report any suspicious transactions right away.
  • Consider Digital Payments: While checks can still be useful, electronic payments through online banking are faster, safer, and trackable.

Stop by for Your Free Fraud-Fighting Pen! We're making it easier than ever to protect your finances. Just visit any First Commonwealth Financial Center to grab your free high-security pen. Keep one at home, in your car, or near your checkbook so you're always ready to write securely.

We're always seeking ways to help our members protect what matters most. And sometimes, it starts with something as simple as a pen.