Criminals go where the easy wins are, and sometimes that’s right in our own mailboxes. In small towns, outgoing mail with checks inside or an unattended ATM can be an easy target. Fortunately, a few simple habits go a long way toward keeping your money secure.
Safer ways to send and receive
- Use secure drop locations for outgoing mail, especially bill payments. Avoid leaving mail overnight in an unlocked box.
- Switch to e-bill pay through Online Banking to eliminate the risk of stolen checks altogether.
- Check your account activity weekly and set up alerts so you catch problems quickly.
Check security basics
- Write with gel ink, fill every line, and avoid leaving blank spaces.
- Never post photos of checks online, even a partial image can expose key details.
- If a check goes missing, contact us right away to place a stop payment.
ATM and card safety
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Give the card slot a quick wiggle. If it’s loose, bulky, or oddly attached, there may be a skimmer installed.
- The FTC explains how to avoid card skimmers here.
If you suspect theft or tampering, call us immediately, then report mail theft to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Keep notes and screenshots as documentation helps investigators.
At Farmers State Bank, we’re always here to help you protect your accounts. Remember, prevention is powerful!
