NCJ Number
177446
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 68 Issue: 5 Dated: May 1999 Pages: 10-17
Date Published
1999
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article discusses check fraud indicators, investigative strategies in cases of check fraud, and prevention strategies.
Abstract
Investigators must be alert to indicators that signal check fraud activity. They can identify leading indicators by completing a comprehensive crime survey that requires analyzing demographic information and crime reports, as well as collecting data from financial and business communities, civic groups, and other law enforcement agencies. By analyzing suspicious-activity reports that financial institutions submit to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network of the U.S. Department of the Treasury as well as other check fraud complaints, local law enforcement agencies can identify a variety of factors, such as the types of fraud schemes prevalent in the area and the identities of banks that seem prone to check fraud activity. Investigative strategies should include a balanced approach that incorporates both traditional and proactive investigative methods. Joint investigations and task forces composed of several agencies have proven effective in some jurisdictions. Preventive strategies can include the use of fraud prevention measures such as the development of fraud profiles and the creation of fingerprinting policies, as well as providing training for potential victims. Preventive techniques can reduce the demand on limited investigative resources and provide a relatively low-cost way to reduce check fraud losses. 11 notes