Still sending checks in the mail? It's time to stop

Key Points:

• Check fraud is increasing despite fewer paper checks being used, with Americans losing more money to check scams in 2025 than to debit or gift card fraud, as criminals target larger-value checks typically sent by mail.
• Organized criminal gangs now use advanced technology to steal, alter, or create fake checks, exploiting the outdated paper check system, which remains vulnerable to theft and manipulation.
• Consumer advocates recommend stopping the use of paper checks altogether, urging a shift to safer electronic payments through credit/debit cards, bank apps, or secure online portals, although some individuals remain uncomfortable with digital methods.
• If sending checks is unavoidable, consumers should use secure checks with anti-fraud features, write with permanent ink, avoid leaving blank spaces, mail checks securely, monitor their bank accounts closely, and report any suspected fraud promptly to minimize losses.
• Banks are liable for forged checks but require timely fraud reporting, often within 30 days, to avoid holding customers responsible for negligence in cases of check fraud.