Practice Safe Checks
Fraud Prevention Information
Together with the American Bankers Association (ABA), Planters First Bank is working to help educate customers on how to use checks safely, while also encouraging them to consider alternatives to checks. With the same look and feel as #BanksNeverAskThat, we believe it will deliver the same positive impact.
An unprotected check is a gold mine for criminals.
Understanding scammer tactics is your first line of defense. It all starts with them getting their hands on one of your real checks. Learn how they exploit stolen info to hijack your funds.
- Stolen Checks: Criminals frequently raid mailboxes and intercept mail, snatching checks so they can alter them and steal your money.
- Tampered Checks: Scammers employ chemicals to “wash” checks, erasing and rewriting details to siphon funds into their accounts.
- Fake Checks: Armed with routing and account numbers, criminals easily craft counterfeit checks using modern printers and software.
Own a business? Your payments need business-class treatment.
Lost in transit. Delayed arrival. No tracking. And we’re not talking about your luggage. Checks come with serious risk. Make payments that land safely.
- Big Payments = Big Targets: Small businesses often send larger payments and process more transactions than individuals, and criminals know it.
- Checks Carry Sensitive Business Info: Every paper check includes your company’s account number, routing number, business name, and signature.
- Avoid the Mailbox Risk: If you must send a check, take it directly to the post office and send it Priority Mail. Regular mailboxes are common targets for theft.
- Digital Payments Are the True “Business Class”: They’re faster, trackable, and more secure. Ask your bank about safer payment options.
