Let’s talk checks for a second. Sure, they might seem “old school” these days, but that doesn’t mean they’re off-limits to scammers. In fact, check fraud has nearly doubled since 2021 even as check usage continues to decline. Not actually what you want to hear, right? Don’t worry though! As long as you understand how scammers work and taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your finances safe and sound. So, here’s everything you need to know to protect yourself (and your checks!) from scammers looking to get their hands on your hard-earned money.

Unprotected Checks Are a Dream for Criminals

The classic method of check fraud? Mail theft. It starts with criminals raiding mailboxes to snatch checks and use them for their own gain. Once a criminal has the check in hand, they employ special chemicals to “wash” your check—erasing and rewriting the details to siphon funds straight into their own accounts. All it takes is the addition of a few extra zeroes to put you out thousands of dollars and make a criminal that much richer. And if that’s not bad enough, they don’t always need a check to do harm. Armed with your account and routing numbers, criminals can easily create counterfeit checks using modern printers and software.

What’s at Risk When You Write a Check?

You might think of a check as a simple document, but it actually contains quite a bit of personal info that could be a goldmine for scammers. Here’s what they’re after:

  • Your name & address: Scammers can use this info for identity theft or to forge other documents.
  • Personal info in the memo line: Avoid being too specific about what you’re paying for in the memo—it can become a weapon for thieves to use in other fraudulent operations.
  • Your signature: That name stamp at the bottom of your check could be copied and used to forge other documents.
  • Account & routing numbers: The very lifeblood of your bank account. Keep them secure!

7 Tips to Protect Your Checks (and Your Bank Account)

Now that you know what’s at risk, here are some strategies straight from the American Bankers Association that you can use to protect yourself:

  1. Use Permanent Gel Pens
    A permanent gel pen ensures that your check can’t be easily altered by criminals. Trust us—taking the extra time to find a permanent pen in your drawer will be worth it in the long run.
  2. Avoid Blank Spaces
    Fill in every blank space on the check. Criminals love blank spaces because they leave room for alterations. Be thorough!
  3. Withhold Personal Information
    Don’t write your Social Security number, driver’s license number, phone number, or any other personal information on your checks. Scammers are always looking to steal your details, so guard them carefully!
  4. Review Accounts Regularly
    Check your account activity online regularly to spot any unauthorized transactions early. The sooner you catch fraud, the sooner you can stop it!
  5. Check Your Checks
    After a check clears, review it in your online banking platform. Ensure the endorsement (the signature or stamp) matches the payee and the amount is correct.
  6. Consider Positive Pay
    Positive Pay adds an extra layer of protection by alerting you if a check doesn’t match the information you’ve provided to your bank. Just think of it as having a second set of eyes on your account.
  7. Use Digital Payment Options
    Whenever possible, use your bank’s app or online bill pay. It’s faster, easier, and more secure than writing checks—and it reduces the risk of fraud altogether!

The Cost of Check Fraud

Think of your checkbook as a sensitive document—because it really is! Just as you wouldn’t leave cash lying around, don’t let your checks become an easy target. The cost of check fraud is on the rise, and criminals are getting more creative, finding ways to exploit every little loophole. Even as checks become less common, scammers still see them as an opportunity for fraud—especially knowing you might not be watching as closely. While digital payments are fast and convenient, we know checks are still a part of life for many. So, if checks are your go-to, the simple steps we’ve outlined can help keep your money safe.

If you do find yourself falling prey to scammers, don’t hesitate to contact your bank ASAP and involve the proper authorities if necessary. All you need is a little extra care, fast action, and a few smart habits to stay one step ahead of the fraudsters. Safe checking!