Mailing Checks? The Hidden Bank Risk and Safer Digital Alternatives

Despite fewer checks in use, paper checks are a rising fraud target: in 2025, losses from check fraud surpassed those from debit and gift-card scams as criminals steal, wash, or create checks, often exploiting the sender’s account and routing numbers. The article notes that e-payments and bank portals are typically safer, though no method is risk-free. Practical tips include using secure checks with anti-fraud features, permanent ink, filling in all fields, mailing from the post office, tracking the check, reviewing images, and reporting fraud promptly to recover funds and deter thieves.