Even though check usage has decreased by 25%, reports of check fraud have nearly doubled since 2021. Criminals are getting more sophisticated, stealing financial information to access—and fly off with—your hard-earned money. At Extraco Banks, we’re committed to helping you use checks safely and confidently.
Don’t give fraudsters the runway. Knowing their tricks is your first line of defense.
✉️ How Criminals Use Your Checks
- Mailbox Raids: Thieves steal checks from mailboxes, alter them, and drain your account. To avoid this, never leave mail in your mailbox overnight. Heading out of town? Pause your mail delivery for peace of mind. If you need to send a check, drop it off at a USPS location instead of your home mailbox.
- Check Washing: Fraudsters use chemicals to erase and rewrite your checks, rerouting the money into their own accounts.
- Counterfeit Checks: With just your account and routing number, criminals can create fake checks using modern software and printers.
Every time you write a check, you expose personal information—your name, contact details, and account number. If you can’t switch to digital payments, follow these tips to protect yourself:
✍️ 7 Tips to Practice Safe Check Writing
- Use Permanent Gel Pens
Just like wearing a seatbelt, using permanent ink on your checks adds an extra layer of security. - Avoid Blank Spaces
Fill out every blank space on a check so criminals can’t alter it. - Withhold Personal Info
The middle-seat passenger doesn’t need your life story—keep personal information off checks whenever possible. - Monitor Your Account
Check your activity through Extraco’s eBank app as regularly as you’d wait for a flight status update. Early detection helps stop fraud fast. Download the app here. - Review Your Checks
Look over paid checks in our app or online. Verify endorsements and amounts to catch any discrepancies early. - Switch to Digital Payments
Consider using Extraco’s online bill pay or payment apps for fast, secure transactions. - Follow Up with Payees
Just like you confirm flight details, check with your payees to ensure they’ve received and deposited your check.
For more helpful tips, videos, and resources on practicing safe check usage, visit PracticeSafeChecks.com. Stay one step ahead of fraud with Extraco Banks—your security is always our priority.
