Check Fraud Investigation

Investigation workflow when check fraud is suspected or reported. Covers evidence gathering, loss mitigation, and reporting. Takes 1-3 hours depending on complexity. Best for: Fraud investigators, operations managers.

4 steps

Banking

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Process steps

Secure the account

1 hours from previous step

task

First priority: prevent additional losses. Place a hold on the account, block online access if account takeover is suspected, and flag for additional verification on all transactions. Issue new checks and debit cards if needed. Document all actions taken.

Form fields in this step

Account Secured *

New Cards/Checks Ordered *

Gather evidence and document fraud

4 hours from previous step

task

Collect all evidence: original check images, signature cards, surveillance footage if available, transaction logs, and customer statements. Create a timeline of events. For counterfeit checks, compare to genuine checks from the same account.

Form fields in this step

Check Images Obtained *

Signature Comparison Completed *

Customer Statement Obtained *

File claims and recover funds

2 days from previous step

task

If another bank paid the fraudulent item, file a claim for recovery. For deposits of fraudulent checks, pursue the depositor. File warranty claims through the appropriate channels. Document all claim numbers and dates.

Form fields in this step

Recovery Claim Filed *

Claim Reference Number

Expected Recovery Amount

File reports and close investigation

5 days from previous step

task

File SAR if applicable (any fraud over $5,000 must be reported). File police report if customer requests or bank policy requires. Update fraud tracking systems. Close the investigation with final summary documenting losses, recoveries, and lessons learned.

Form fields in this step

SAR Filed *

Police Report Filed *

Net Loss to Bank *