Never accept a check without checking the ID of the person signing the check. Always be sure to compare the signature and picture ID of the check writer to the person offering the check as payment. Never allow the check writer to tell you their ID number, but observe it yourself and record it carefully. If you file a complaint with the Worthless Check Division, you will be required to swear that the person who stood before you was the same person whose ID number you recorded.
Many banks have reduced their losses to worthless checks by asking check cashers to provide a thumbprint when cashing a check. The print is inkless and the equipment is inexpensive and readily available from several vendors. You can contact your bank for the names of the companies providing such products.