Check washing, the fraudulent alteration of checks to increase the amount payable, is a serious crime. Protecting yourself from this type of financial fraud requires vigilance and the use of appropriate security measures. One of the most effective preventative steps is using a pen specifically designed to resist alteration. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. This guide will help you navigate the options and select the best pens to prevent check washing.
What Makes a Pen Resistant to Check Washing?
Before diving into specific pen recommendations, it’s crucial to understand the mechanics behind check washing prevention. Check washers typically use chemicals or solvents to remove the ink, making it easier to alter the amount written on a check. Pens designed to prevent this typically use:
- Special inks: These inks are chemically resistant and are designed not to dissolve or fade easily when exposed to solvents or chemicals. They often bond more strongly with the paper fibers than standard inks.
- Polymer-based inks: These inks contain polymers that create a protective layer over the written information, making it more difficult to remove.
Types of Check-Washing Resistant Pens
Several types of pens offer varying degrees of protection against check washing. Here's a breakdown:
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Acid-Free Ink Pens: These are a good starting point, ensuring the ink won't react negatively with the check paper itself and cause damage. While not foolproof against sophisticated techniques, they offer basic protection.
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Archival-Quality Pens: Often used for important documents, these pens use inks formulated for longevity and resistance to fading, offering superior protection compared to regular pens.
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Security Pens: These pens are specifically designed with check washing prevention in mind and utilize specialized inks formulated to resist various chemical treatments. This is your best bet for strong protection. Many feature tamper-evident inks that change color or leave a residue when attempts are made to remove them.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAAs)
Here are some commonly asked questions about check washing prevention and the best pens to use:
What is the best ink color to use on checks to prevent washing?
Darker ink colors, such as black or dark blue, generally offer better visibility and contrast, making them harder to alter or wash away. However, the type of ink, not just the color, is the primary factor in preventing check washing.
Can regular ballpoint pens be used to write checks?
While you can technically use a regular ballpoint pen, it offers minimal protection against check washing. The ink is easily removed with solvents, making it a vulnerable choice. Using a pen specifically designed for check writing is strongly recommended.
Where can I buy check-washing resistant pens?
You can usually find these pens at office supply stores, online retailers, and sometimes even banks. Be sure to look for pens explicitly advertised as "check washing resistant" or "fraud prevention" pens to ensure they meet the required standards.
Are there any other ways to protect my checks from being washed?
Yes! Using check-washing resistant pens is just one piece of the puzzle. Other important precautions include:
- Using check-writing software: Software programs help to make the check harder to manipulate by using pre-printed fields and security features.
- Using high-security paper: Checks printed on specialized paper designed to resist alteration offer an additional layer of security.
- Keeping your checks secure: Never leave checks lying around, and always keep them in a safe place.
- Regularly monitoring your bank statements: Regularly review your bank statements for any unauthorized activity or unusual transactions.
How effective are check-washing resistant pens?
While no method is completely foolproof against determined criminals, using check-washing resistant pens significantly reduces the risk of successful check washing. The specialized inks used make it substantially more difficult to remove or alter the written information.
Conclusion
Protecting yourself against check washing requires a multi-faceted approach. Using a high-quality, check-washing resistant pen is a crucial step in this process. While the best pen for your needs will depend on your budget and security needs, investing in a pen specifically designed to resist alteration offers peace of mind and provides a significant deterrent to fraud. Remember, using these pens in conjunction with other security measures provides the most comprehensive protection.
