Do You Practice Safe Checks?

Even though fewer people write checks these days, check fraud is actually on the rise. Criminals are finding new ways to steal, “wash,” and replicate checks, making it more important than ever to protect yourself. With a few simple habits, you can help keep your money safe.

Why Check Safety Matters

Even with digital banking tools, many people use checks to pay bills, rent, or contractors. But checks can be an easy target for fraud.

Thieves are increasingly:

  • Stealing checks from mailboxes
  • Using chemicals to “wash” checks and change the payee or amount
  • Copying your account number to create fake checks.

How to Practice Safe Checks

  1. Use a permanent gel pen when writing checks. Ink that soaks into the paper is harder to erase.
  2. Fill in all the spaces so there’s no room for scammers to alter amounts.
  3. Keep personal details private. Avoid adding info like your phone number or address in the memo line.
  4. Drop checks off at the post office, not your home mailbox, especially overnight.
  5. Monitor your accounts regularly with online or mobile banking so you can catch unusual activity fast.
  6. Confirm with your payee to make sure your check was received and deposited safely.
  7. Use digital payments when possible. They’re faster, safer, and available anytime through our Online Bill Pay.

Your Safety, Our Priority

Check fraud may be on the rise, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Greenfield Cooperative Bank, we’re here to help you protect your money with smart tools, account monitoring, and secure payment options. We’re here to give you peace of mind every step of the way.

Want an even safer option? Try our online and mobile payment tools and skip the checkbook altogether. Learn more here.