Worried about Check Fraud – Shred Your Checkbook

Is it time to start talking about shredding our checkbooks? Not long ago few would have predicted writing checks and dropping them into a blue postal box would become a risky behavior. Yet today, every check written can provide the necessary ingredients for low-level fraud artists and crime rings to defraud individuals and financial institutions billions of dollars.

Even as check usage has declined, thieves have become more daring and sophisticated. Stealing carriers’ keys which unlock mailboxes to gain access to checks. Then, washing the checks to remove all the information except the signature or scanning them and electronically modifying the information.

Making the switch to online payments brings numerous benefits over traditional checks, making transactions faster, more convenient, and cost-effective. Online bill payments offer the flexibility to be made from anywhere with an internet connection. No more hassle of mailing checks; the process happens at your fingertips, enhancing overall convenience.

Digital records generated by online payments make transaction tracking seamless. This not only aids in keeping accurate financial records but also simplifies auditing processes for individuals and businesses. The transparency of digital records adds an extra layer of trust and accountability to financial transactions.

Faster access to funds is a practical advantage for recipients of online payments.

In addition to these advantages, the security features of online payments provide a robust defense against potential threats. Encryption, multi-factor authentication, and real-time transaction monitoring ensure the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information.

While enjoying the benefits of online bill payments, users are encouraged to practice good security habits, including the use of strong passwords and remaining vigilant against phishing attempts. These combined features make online payments a secure, efficient, and environmentally conscious choice for modern financial transactions.

How to Get Started

Not signed up for online banking? Give us a call at 877-661-3300 or visit a branch and sit down with a team member, we will be happy to get you started. You can also learn more about online banking and bill pay on our website.

Learn about Digital Wallets

Know someone whose credit or debit card got hacked after using it at a grocery store or gas station? Digital wallets offer protection against your card getting captured by a skimmer.

More information about digital wallets