Protect Yourself Against Check Fraud

Checking account fraud is one of the fastest growing crimes in the nation, according to law enforcement officials. Estimates of check fraud victims total in the hundreds of thousands each year with losses totaling between $10 and $20 billion annually, and growing.

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New technology, inexpensive software, scanners and improved printers make it easier for thieves to set up fraudulent check stings.

1st Source Bank has initiated training programs and other safeguards to help prevent and detect this crime. Listed below are a few things that you can do to prevent check fraud.

Ordering Checks

• Order checks from a reputable check printer like Deluxe Check Printers. Do not order checks from unknown web sites or from telemarketers phoning your home.
  
• Don't have your social security number or phone number automatically listed on your checks.
  
• Contact 1st Source if your checks don't arrive within 14 days of ordering.

Writing Checks

• Make sure the hand writing on your checks is compact, and there aren't spaces or gaps that can be used to alter the amount of your check.
  
• Don't allow a retailer to write your Social Security number, credit card number or phone number on your check.
  
• Write checks in permanent ink (can't be washed off the paper).

Mailing Checks

• Mail checks from a US postal box, not your home mail box.
  
• Prevent your checks from showing through envelopes by using security envelopes or folding a piece of paper around checks.

Reconciling Checks

• Contact 1st Source if your statement is late in arriving.
  
• Reconcile your checking account statement promptly.
  
• Report any discrepancies immediately.

Safeguarding Checks

• Keep your checks in a safe place at home with limited access (not the desk drawer in the office or den).
  
• Keep checks at work in a secure place.

Disposal of checks/bank statements

• Shred left over deposit tickets after all the checks have been used.
  
• Shred statements you want to dispose of.

What to do about Stolen Checks

• File a police report.
  
• Contact 1st Source about your account.
  
• Contact the check verification companies listed below: