Banking Blog
Where are your blank checks?
Here's a quick quiz question for you: Where are your blank checks right now?
If you aren't quite sure, or if you know precisely where they are, but it's not a secure spot, listen up. Blank checks can provide a would-be thief with a "blank check" to steal from you, and a future check forger may be much closer than you think.
We've heard tragic stories of wayward sons, incorrigible daughters, light-fingered cleaning ladies, felonious-minded repairmen, and even theft-minded party guests stealing checks and forging them. Crooked bookkeepers corral the checks at the office and embezzle funds there. A packet of blank checks can put a criminally-minded individual one step closer to robbing your account. This crime of opportunity could happen to you if you don't take precautions.
Your unused checks should be stored in a locked closet, cabinet or safe. Only those with a "need to know" should be aware of their location. The lock should be locked at all times.
In terms of the checks in the packet you are currently using, don't leave them in the car when you take it in to be serviced. Don't leave your purse unattended while you're getting a massage or are otherwise occupied. In other words, use common sense to ensure that the only person alone with your checkbook is you.
A common technique is for someone with access to your blank checks (either in your purse, wallet, or still in the box) to merely steal a check or two from the middle of the pack. This allows the theft to go unnoticed for a longer period of time.
Next time you place a check order, consider asking your bank to allow you to pick up the new checks there at the bank, instead of having them mailed to your home or office, particularly if they would sit unattended in your mailbox for more than just a few minutes.
When it comes to safeguarding your bank account, you're the head of security. Make sure you're doing your job!
One more thing. If you're don't have a habit of routinely reviewing your bank statement when it is sent to you, develop that habit. Listen to our podcast to learn why.
The Importance of Reviewing Your Statements
Here's a quick quiz question for you: Where are your blank checks right now?
If you aren't quite sure, or if you know precisely where they are, but it's not a secure spot, listen up. Blank checks can provide a would-be thief with a "blank check" to steal from you, and a future check forger may be much closer than you think.
We've heard tragic stories of wayward sons, incorrigible daughters, light-fingered cleaning ladies, felonious-minded repairmen, and even theft-minded party guests stealing checks and forging them. Crooked bookkeepers corral the checks at the office and embezzle funds there. A packet of blank checks can put a criminally-minded individual one step closer to robbing your account. This crime of opportunity could happen to you if you don't take precautions.
Your unused checks should be stored in a locked closet, cabinet or safe. Only those with a "need to know" should be aware of their location. The lock should be locked at all times.
In terms of the checks in the packet you are currently using, don't leave them in the car when you take it in to be serviced. Don't leave your purse unattended while you're getting a massage or are otherwise occupied. In other words, use common sense to ensure that the only person alone with your checkbook is you.
A common technique is for someone with access to your blank checks (either in your purse, wallet, or still in the box) to merely steal a check or two from the middle of the pack. This allows the theft to go unnoticed for a longer period of time.
Next time you place a check order, consider asking your bank to allow you to pick up the new checks there at the bank, instead of having them mailed to your home or office, particularly if they would sit unattended in your mailbox for more than just a few minutes.
When it comes to safeguarding your bank account, you're the head of security. Make sure you're doing your job!
One more thing. If you're don't have a habit of routinely reviewing your bank statement when it is sent to you, develop that habit. Listen to our podcast to learn why.
The Importance of Reviewing Your Statements
posted by Mary Beth at
2:26 PM
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