Though the use of checks has decreased by 25%, check fraud has nearly doubled since 2021.* Today, using checks comes with increased risks as criminals continue to find clever ways to commit check fraud. We encourage you to use digital payment options whenever possible. If checks are your only option, here are some tips on how to safely write, send, and receive them.

How It Works:

It all starts with scammers getting hold of one of your real checks so keep your checkbook safe and check your mailbox often. Once your check is stolen, scammers will “wash” the check, erasing and rewriting the details to direct funds into their accounts. Once they’ve obtained your bank routing and account numbers, criminals can also create fake checks using their own software and printers.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Always use permanent gel pens when writing checks.
• Avoid blank spaces. Fill out checks completely, taking up the entire blank. For example, if there is empty space, it would be very simple to make your $   100.00 into $99,100.
• Don’t include personal information on checks.
• Monitor your accounts. Reviewing your account activity is a wise thing to do whether you are writing checks or not. If you have recently written a check, keep a close eye out to make sure the correct amount was taken out of your account.
• Double check your checks. Review paid checks in online banking to ensure that the endorsement, amount, and other details are correct.
• Follow up with payees. Confirm that they received and deposited your check.

How to Prepare for Receiving Checks:

• Utilize USPS’ informed delivery to receive daily email notifications of your upcoming mail and packages.
• Don’t let mail sit in your mailbox overnight or for any long period of time.
• If you are going out of town, ask the post office to hold all mail until you return.
• Mail checks from your local post office instead of your home mailbox.

As a Southern First client, we want you to know that we are doing everything possible to protect you, including arm you with information to protect yourself. If you ever have any questions, concerns, or there seems to be something suspicious happening in your account, do not hesitate to reach out to your banker.

*2024 Findings from the Diary of Consumer Payment Choices; Federal Reserve Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, Suspicious Activity Report Statistics