Navigating the Future of Checks: Trends and Fraud Prevention in Financial Services

Navigating the Future of Checks: Trends and Fraud Prevention in Financial Services

Explore the future of check usage, emerging trends in check imaging, and how financial institutions can combat fraud in an evolving digital landscape.

In a recent episode of the Bank Customer Experience (BCX) Podcast, industry veterans Scott Fieber and Austin Smith from Cook Solutions Group joined host Bradley Cooper to explore the evolving landscape of check usage and the growing importance of fraud prevention strategies. As digital payment options continue to rise in popularity, many are left wondering: Are checks becoming obsolete, or do they still hold value in certain banking segments?

While consumer use of checks has clearly declined, the conversation revealed that business use remains surprisingly steady. “We still see a lot of organizations relying on checks, particularly in B2B transactions,” said Smith. “The trajectory isn’t as linear as some might think—industry, geography, and use case all play a role.”

The episode also shed light on the increasing sophistication of check fraud, especially in the realm of remote deposit capture and mobile banking. Fieber emphasized that as financial institutions adopt newer technologies, the methods criminals use to exploit them are evolving just as fast. “It’s critical to build smart, layered fraud prevention strategies that don’t just react to issues—but anticipate them,” he noted.

As banks and credit unions navigate this complex environment, Cook Solutions Group continues to position itself at the forefront of innovation, offering integrative technologies and strategic insights that help financial institutions stay one step ahead. Whether you're reassessing your check imaging workflows or building stronger security protocols, this episode is a timely reminder of how legacy processes and modern threats intersect—and why staying informed is key.