Bristol based accountants Barnes Hunter are
warning businesses and consumers across the
region to be aware of a predicted increase
in cheque fraud, following the launch of chip
and pin technology.
For the first time in a number of years,
cheque fraud is reported to be rising as increased
security on credit cards has forced criminals
to turn their attention back to cheques, as
a method to defraud businesses and the general
public.
Mark Hunter, partner at Barnes Hunter explains
“Chip and pin has been successful in
the fight against card fraud. However this
means criminals are being forced to move elsewhere
and use less secure payment systems. It is
more important than ever that companies ensure
that all forms of payment are as secure as
they can be.”
Prior to chip and pin, technology such as
BACS, made electronic payments secure, however
there is less security surrounding cheque
payments.
Mark concludes “As businesses deal
with so many transactions and cheques, they
are usually the prime target for fraudsters.
It is therefore important to ensure cheques
are made as secure as possible.
“Its not only businesses who need to
be careful, consumers should watch out as
well, selling items on websites is now more
popular than ever, so if a buyer sends you
a cheque, you should ensure you also have
all their details, in case any problems occur.”
For more information on cheque fraud contact
Barnes Hunter on 0117 930 0061.
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