Security, Privacy, and Risk Considerations

Why Check Security Matters

Checks contain your routing number, account number, name, and address — all the information a fraudster needs to attempt unauthorized transactions. While digital payment methods have grown, check fraud remains a real risk. The American Bankers Association and FBI have reported ongoing check fraud incidents, making it essential to understand the security features built into your checks and the steps you can take to protect yourself.

Security Features in Checks Unlimited Checks

According to publicly available information, Checks Unlimited checks are produced on ABA-compliant security paper by Deluxe Corporation. The standard security features include:

• Chemically reactive paper: Reacts to washing solvents used in check alteration attempts, making chemical washing visible.
• Genuine watermarks: Embedded in the paper fiber during manufacturing, visible when held to light — difficult to reproduce with copiers or scanners.
• Microprinting: Tiny text along the signature line that appears as a solid line when photocopied, helping detect reproductions.
• Heat-sensitive (thermochromic) ink: Disappears when rubbed or exposed to heat, providing a simple tactile verification method.
• Void pantographs: Hidden "VOID" patterns that appear when the check is photocopied or scanned.
• UV-reactive fluorescent fibers: Visible only under ultraviolet light, used by banks for authentication.

The high-security check tier adds two-dimensional holographic foil, which creates an additional visual verification element that is difficult to replicate without specialized equipment.

The SentryShield Fraud Protection Program

Checks Unlimited offers the SentryShield check fraud protection program. According to the company's public pages, SentryShield:

• Protects against forged signatures, endorsements, or altered check information
• Provides advancement of funds up to $25,000 within 72 hours
• Offers an additional layer of protection beyond the physical security features of the check

The specific terms, coverage limits, and claim process should be verified on the official Checks Unlimited website. SentryShield is an optional add-on and may involve an additional fee at checkout.

Payment and Account Protection

When ordering checks online, you transmit sensitive banking and payment information. Checks Unlimited's Security Pledge states that the site uses encryption technology to protect credit card and bank information during transmission. However, no system is completely secure. Best practices include:

• Verify you are on the official website (checksunlimited.com) before entering any information
• Confirm the page uses HTTPS encryption (padlock icon in the browser address bar)
• Use a credit card rather than a debit card for better fraud protection
• Avoid ordering checks over public Wi-Fi networks
• Monitor your bank account for unauthorized transactions after ordering

Data Privacy Considerations

When you order checks, the check printer receives your name, address, banking details, and payment information. Checks Unlimited's privacy policy (available on their website) describes how this information may be used. According to publicly available information, the company states it does not sell personal information. However, users should review the official privacy policy for current details on data collection, retention, and sharing practices.

It is important to note that The Best Check is not Checks Unlimited. We do not process, store, or handle your check orders, banking information, or payment details. Any information you provide to Checks Unlimited is governed by their privacy policy, not ours.

Industry-Specific Risk Reminders

• Check fraud: Despite security features, checks can still be altered, forged, or stolen from the mail. Store checks securely and monitor your account.
• Mail theft: Checks sent via standard untrackable shipping are not trackable. If your checks don't arrive, contact customer service immediately.
• Account takeover: If someone obtains your routing and account numbers, they can attempt fraudulent transactions. Report suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
• Checkout add-ons: Review your cart for optional services you didn't intend to purchase, as some have been reported as pre-selected.

User Safety Checklist

• Order from the official website only — verify the URL before entering information
• Use HTTPS-encrypted pages for all transactions
• Double-check your banking details before submitting your order
• Review all optional add-ons and opt out of unwanted services
• Save your order confirmation number
• Choose trackable shipping if you're concerned about mail theft
• Monitor your bank account after ordering for any unauthorized activity
• Store checks in a secure location when they arrive
• Review the official Checks Unlimited privacy policy and security pledge