Beware mailing checks to pay bills, Massillon police says

MASSILLON, Ohio (WOIO) - Massillon Police Department is warning the community about using mailed checks to pay bills.

According to a Facebook post from Massillon police, the department received reports of checks mailed to company Aqua Ohio, where some were intercepted.

The intercepted checks are being opened and either being altered or rewritten, Massillon police say.

Police urge neighbors who mail in checks to do the following:

• Watch bank accounts frequently for unauthorized transactions
• Use secure mail drop boxes instead of outgoing mail in residential mailboxes
• When possible, use electronic payment methods to avoid the risk of mail theft

Massillon police say if there is any suspicious activity, or you believe are a victim of check fraud, to immediately contact your bank and report to your local police department.

19 News reached out to Massillon Police Department for more information.