Finance Tip: Using A Gel Pen to Help Prevent Check Fraud

We Care About You & Your Finances

For more than 150 years, Kennebec Savings Bank has offered finance tips to individuals, nonprofit organizations, and municipalities to educate them on current trends when it comes to financing. 

Our goal is to provide valuable advice on setting and achieving financial goals, protecting your financial security, and expanding your financial education.

Whether you are just starting your journey towards financial independence or looking to improve your current financial situation, our tips and resources are here to help you navigate the complex world of finance. 


How Using Gel Pens Can Help to Prevent Check Fraud





































Check fraud is a serious issue that is on the rise as scammers become more sophisticated in their tactics. One common way that these bad actors alter checks is by erasing parts of the check using chemicals or other means, and then writing in a different amount or payee. This can result in you losing more money than intended, and it can become a hassle to rectify the situation.

One simple way to prevent check fraud is by switching from a traditional ink pen to a gel pen. Gel pens use ink that is more difficult to erase or alter, making it harder for scammers to tamper with the information on your checks. By using a gel pen, you can add an extra layer of security to your financial transactions and protect yourself from falling victim to fraud.

In addition to using a gel pen, there are other precautions you can take to protect yourself from check fraud. For example, you can use your bank's electronic bill payment service to pay your bills instead of writing paper checks. Electronic payments are more secure and reduce the risk of your checks being altered or stolen.

Another important step in preventing check fraud is to regularly review the transactions in your account. By keeping a close eye on your account activity, you can quickly identify any unauthorized or suspicious transactions and report them to your bank before any more damage is done.

At Kennebec Savings Bank, we take the security of our customers' accounts seriously. That's why we are now offering gel pens to all customers who visit our branches. We believe that by providing our customers with the tools they need to protect themselves from fraud, we can help safeguard their financial well-being.

So, the next time you reach for a pen to write a check, consider using a gel pen for added security. It's a simple but effective way to protect yourself from check fraud and keep your money safe. And if you ever have any questions or concerns about the security of your accounts, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help you protect what matters most.



Written By: Andrew Silsby, President & CEO | September 1st, 2024