Combatting Check Fraud

Despite the declining use of checks in the U.S., check fraud is on the rise. In fact, checks continue to be the payment method most vulnerable to fraud. Nearly 2 in 3 organizations (65%) were on the receiving end of fraud activity via checks, according to a 2024 survey of financial professionals.

You don’t have to take check fraud lying down. Here are some steps you can take to fight back.

• Protect your account number. This valuable information can be used by thieves to create a fake check that looks like the real thing. It can also be used to issue an electronic debit or move money out of your account.
• Limit account access. As few people as possible should have access to your checks and signing authority to write checks.
• Keep blank checks safe. Checks contain a lot of sensitive information. Keep them in a secure place—in a locked drawer or cabinet, ideally. And if you believe checks have been lost or stolen alert us at once.
• Send checks securely. If you must mail a check, use a security envelope or position it between other papers so that it cannot be seen. Visit the Post Office or an official U.S. Post Office Mailbox to drop off mail—this is safer than placing them in your personal mailbox to be collected.
• Monitor your accounts. Set up email or text alerts for unusual activity, transactions exceeding a certain dollar amount, and unusual account login activity. Review every transaction to make sure it’s authorized, and keep a close eye on any recurring payments.
• Enable Positive Pay. For payments that must be made by paper check, use the fraud protection service Positive Pay. This service helps detect and prevent check fraud and is appropriate for account holders that issue a high volume of checks, a lot of checks to the general public, or checks for large dollar amounts

If you have any questions, we’re here to help!  Contact your Business Banker or Relationship Manager today.