Paper checks may seem like a relic of the past, but many people continue to rely on them for certain types of payments. Unfortunately, fraudsters haven't given up on paper checks either.
Even if you seldom use checks, it’s essential to know how to minimize the risk of someone altering one to steal funds from your checking account.
Tips to protect yourself from check-related fraud
Taking a few simple precautions could reduce your risk of experiencing check fraud.
Consider these tips the next time you write a paper check.
1. Use all available space
One of the most common ways to commit check fraud is to simply alter the amount written on a check by adding another zero (or two). Leaving extra space next to the dollar amount leaves you vulnerable to paying more than you intended.
Whether you’re writing the dollar amount in words or numbers, start writing as close to the left-hand edge as possible. Write as large as possible to fill the entire amount field. If there’s any space left over, draw a line through it.
2. When you make an error, void the check
If you make an error while filling out a check, don’t just throw it away. Write “VOID” across the check in large capital letters to indicate that it should not be cashed. Writing in print rather than cursive may make it easier to read.
3. Never sign a blank check
Signing checks in advance or leaving key fields temporarily blank is risky. Anyone could write in an inflated amount or an unintended recipient. Even if you only leave the amount blank while waiting on your final total, the intended recipient could write in a higher amount than agreed upon.
It’s generally best to only fill out a check after you know all the details, including the exact amount and payee, and save signing for last.
4. Report a lost or stolen checkbook right away
If your checkbook is lost or stolen, report it to the bank immediately. The sooner you act, the more likely your bank can prevent the missing checks from being filled out and cashed by an unauthorized person.
5. Choose personal checks that feature a padlock icon
The padlock icon on some checks is a registered certification mark of the Check Payment Systems Association. It indicates that the check includes security features, such as microprinting or special inks, which are designed to make fraud more difficult.
6. Don’t write “cash” in the payable to blank
Making a check payable to cash may allow anyone to deposit it. Writing the recipient's name on the check protects you from an unauthorized person cashing it and claiming the funds.
7. Use a black gel pen to fill out checks
Some people steal checks and use special chemicals to “wash off” pen ink and rewrite checks. Black gel pen ink is more difficult to remove with these chemicals than ink from ballpoint pens.
8. Take precautions when mailing checks
If you need to send a check in the mail, consider using a security envelope with a unique crosshatch design to mask the contents inside. This may make it more challenging for someone to copy your account and routing number from the check.
Rather than placing the check in your mailbox, hand it directly to your mail carrier or put it in one of the blue collection boxes outside of the post office.
9. Check that your check arrived
When sending checks by mail, contact your intended recipient to make sure they received it. If the payment is large, you might choose to send the check through certified mail, which requires a signature upon delivery.
If the intended recipient says they never received your check, request a stop payment from your bank to prevent anyone else from cashing it.
10. Never put personal information on a check
Always avoid writing personal information on a check, such as your driver’s license or social security number. Thieves can use this information to commit identity theft.
Stay alert, even with safety measures in place
These tips may help reduce the likelihood of check fraud, but writing paper checks is never risk-free. Monitor your checking account closely every time you write or send a check. If you notice any unusual activity on your checking account, report it to your bank as soon as possible.
Disclaimer: Article content is intended for information only. It may not reflect the publisher nor employees’ views. Consult a financial professional before making financial decisions. Publishers or platforms may be compensated for access to third party websites.
