New technology has helped make checking account fraud one of the fastest growing crimes in the nation.  We have training programs and other safeguards in place to help detect check fraud; however, one of the first lines of defense against check fraud is you. 

1. Never respond to unsolicited requests for your checking account, social security number or other financial information.
   
   
2. Shred “convenience checks,” those allowing cash advances on credit cards and temporary checks before discarding.
   
   
3. Shred unused checks from closed accounts.
   
   
4. Do not have your social security number or driver’s license number preprinted on your checks.
   
   
5. When mailing checks, use a heavy weight envelope or wrap checks in paper to conceal them from view.
   
   
6. Safeguard checks at home and on your person.
   
   
7. Notify us and your post office if newly ordered checks or your regular statements do not arrive on time.
   
   
8. Know how many checks you order and make sure you check this number and the accuracy of the information on the checks when they arrive.
   
   
9. Notify us immediately of any stolen checks and close any compromised accounts.
   
   
10. Promptly review and reconcile checking account statements for accuracy.