Old habits can be hard to break—especially for those who have been paying bills, gifting money or donating to charities by writing checks most of their lives.

Check writing may be slow and traditional, but it’s usually dependable—until it falls into the wrong hands.

According to Recorded Future’s 2024 Check Fraud Report, check fraud surged across the U.S. last year, with an estimated $21 billion in losses in 2023 alone.

What makes checks such an easy target for fraud? It comes down to the amount of personal and financial information printed on them. A check typically includes your name and address, along with your bank’s routing and account numbers. Even the memo line can contain personal details.

Once a criminal has access to this information, there are several ways they can exploit it.

• Mail theft: Criminals often steal checks from mailboxes, then alter them to cash or deposit fraudulently.
  
  
• Check washing: Using chemicals, scammers erase details on a check and rewrite them to divert funds.
  
  
• Counterfeiting: With your account and routing numbers, crooks can easily create fake checks using a printer and basic software, making them payable to themselves or other people.

Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help reduce your risk of being targeted.

1. Use gel pens.
Write checks with permanent ink, which is harder to wash or alter.

2. Leave off extra details.
Don’t include your phone number, driver’s license or Social Security number on your checks.

3. Monitor your accounts.
Once the check is sent, don’t assume it’s safe. Check your account activity regularly online or via your bank’s mobile app.

4. Review your checks. 
Make sure the amount is correct and the endorsement reflects the intended payee.  

5. Follow up with payees.
Confirm with the recipient that your check was received and deposited.

6. Mail checks safely.
Drop them off inside the post office or in a secure USPS mailbox—never leave them in an unlocked home mailbox. 

7. Use digital payment options.
Believe it or not, mobile banking, direct deposit and online bill pay are safer, faster alternatives than writing checks.

8. Fill out checks completely.
Don’t leave blank spaces. Fill in all lines to prevent tampering.

9. Double-check the amount.
Always verify the amount before writing it down.

10. Be cautious over the phone.
Never give your checking account number to someone you don’t know or trust.

While you don’t have to stop writing checks altogether, taking a few extra steps can go a long way in protecting your finances—and your peace of mind.