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10 Essential Tips for Preventing Check Fraud

Learn some keys tips to protect you and your business from check fraud.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help reduce your risk of getting taken advantage of by someone engaging in a mail theft-related check fraud scheme. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help protect yourself from check fraud:

  • Use online banking to pay bills whenever possible.

  • Sign up for direct deposit of paychecks and other benefits.

  • Use certified mail or delivery service with tracking for important checks.

  • Monitor bank accounts and credit reports regularly for signs of fraud.

  • Report lost or stolen checks immediately to the bank or credit union.

  • Place a "stop payment" order on a check if it's lost or stolen.

  • Mail checks at the blue postal boxes during normal mail pickup hours. 

  • Use envelopes that are not transparent and seal them securely.

  • Do not write "payment enclosed" or "do not bend" on the envelope to deter tampering.

  • Make sure your checks are endorsed by your financial institution and incorporate security features like watermarks, heat-sensitive ink, or special designs that help combat counterfeiting and alteration.
To learn about more essential tips to prevent check fraud, read the full article here.

 

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All content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and tax or accounting advisors before making any financial decisions.