Check Fraud is on the Rise: Safer Ways to Pay Bills

Mailing checks has become a major risk due to increasing fraud. Thieves are stealing checks from mailboxes, altering them, and cashing them illegally. If you’re still paying bills by mail, it’s time to consider safer alternatives.

Why Mailing Checks is Risky 

  • Mail Theft – Criminals target residential mailboxes and USPS collection boxes for checks.
  • Check Washing – Thieves use chemicals to erase and rewrite check details, stealing large sums.
  • Delayed Payments – Stolen or lost checks can result in late fees and financial headaches.

Safer Alternatives to Pay Bills

  1. Bill Pay Services – Our Credit Union offers a bill pay feature that allows you to schedule electronic payments to vendors.
  2. Online Payments – Most utility companies, credit cards, and service providers allow secure online payments.
  3. Mobile Payment Apps – Services like Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal allow direct and secure payments.
  4. Credit Card Payments – Using a credit card provides an extra layer of fraud protection and may even earn rewards.

If you must mail a check, drop it off inside a post office instead of leaving it in your home mailbox or blue collection boxes. However, transitioning to digital payments is the best way to protect yourself from check fraud.

Posted by Maggie Latham in Fraud & Scams.