Cheque fraud can involve altering or tampering with a cheque, counterfeit cheques that look real, forged cheques, which are genuine but stolen, bounced cheques and even invisible ink.
How to protect yourself
Only accept cheques from people you know and trust, and ask for a different method of payment if it involves a lot of money. Use a pen when writing a cheque and put a line through any empty spaces.
What to do
Contact your bank or building society straight away on a number you know if you think you’re a victim of cheque fraud. You can also make a report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.