Think of it like buckling your seatbelt before takeoff—check safety should be second nature. While fewer people are using checks these days (down 25%), reports of check fraud have skyrocketed, doubling since 2021. Criminals are evolving, and so are their tactics to steal your financial information and take off with your money.
At NASB, we’re committed to helping you protect your payments and personal data. Knowing how fraudsters operate is your first step toward staying secure.
How Check Fraud Takes Flight
One common scheme involves thieves targeting mailboxes to steal outgoing checks. Once they have them, they can alter the payee and amount—or worse, use chemicals to “wash” the ink and rewrite the check entirely. Some even use your account and routing numbers to create counterfeit checks with high-tech printers.
To reduce your risk:
- Don’t leave mail in your box overnight or while you’re away.
- Pause mail delivery if you’re traveling.
- Always drop checks off at a USPS location—not your own mailbox.
Smart Habits for Safer Check Writing
Every time you write a check, you’re sharing sensitive information, such as your name, address, and bank account number. If you must use checks, follow these best practices to keep your finances secure:
- Use Gel Pens with Permanent Ink. Just like a seatbelt keeps you secure, permanent ink helps prevent tampering.
- Fill in Every Blank. Don’t leave room for criminals to add their own details.
- Limit Personal Info: Keep it minimal—your check doesn’t need to tell your life story.
- Monitor Your Accounts Use the NASB mobile app to spot suspicious activity early.
- Review Paid Checks. Double-check endorsements and amounts to ensure accuracy.
- Go Digital When You Can. Online bill pay and payment apps offer safer, faster alternatives.
- Confirm Receipt. Follow up with recipients to ensure your check has arrived and been deposited.
Stay One Step Ahead
Fraudsters are counting on you to be distracted. Don’t give them the opportunity. For more tips, videos, and resources on how to #PracticeSafeChecks, visit PracticeSafeChecks.com and share it with friends and family.
