Check and mail fraud are on the rise. Criminals often steal checks from mailboxes, alter them, and attempt to cash them. To protect yourself, avoid leaving mail in your mailbox overnight or for long periods of time. If you’re traveling, pause your mail delivery. And when mailing a check, drop it off at a USPS location instead of your home mailbox.
If thieves get your check, they may use check washing—chemicals that remove ink so they can rewrite the check. If they obtain your account and routing number, they can also create counterfeit checks using modern printers and software.
Every check you write exposes personal information. Use digital payment options whenever possible. If you do write a check, follow these safety tips:
Information provided by the American Bankers Association in partnership with Iowa State Bank.
If thieves get your check, they may use check washing—chemicals that remove ink so they can rewrite the check. If they obtain your account and routing number, they can also create counterfeit checks using modern printers and software.
Every check you write exposes personal information. Use digital payment options whenever possible. If you do write a check, follow these safety tips:
- Use permanent gel pens to prevent ink from being washed off.
- Avoid blank spaces so nothing can be added later.
- Withhold personal details—don’t include unnecessary information on your checks.
- Review your accounts regularly through online banking or the BankISB mobile app.
- Check your checks by reviewing paid checks online to ensure endorsements and amounts are correct.
- Use digital payment tools like the BankISB mobile app or online bill pay for secure transactions.
- Follow up to confirm your payee received and deposited your check.
Information provided by the American Bankers Association in partnership with Iowa State Bank.
Business Fraud Consumer Tips Cybersecurity Fraud Prevention General
June 9, 2026 by Iowa State Bank
