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The
following are some basic measures you can take to help ensure your
business’s standing remains strong.
1.
Be careful with your mail. When possible, hand deliver important
financial documents and large checks directly to your postal carrier or an
official mailbox. Do not leave these in easily accessible or overnight
boxes. This will reduce the possibility of them being interceded and
tampered with.
2.
Take advantage of electronic processes. Consider paying bills online
with a reputable and secure electronic bill paying service. This offers you
proof of payment and allows you to track payments. Restrict the amount of
people in your company who have access to important account numbers and
information. Monitoring your transactions regularly will alert you to
irregularities and unexpected changes early so that you can take proactive
steps to avoid any further fraudulent charges.
3.
Systematize your check-writing procedures and limit access to blank checks.
Keep blank checks in a secure location. If more than one person has access
to or power to write checks, make sure there is a system for recording all
check numbers and the appropriate initials in a logbook. This will help you
track who purchased what and for what reason.
4. Routinely balance your books. Set up a system to reconcile your
bank statements with your accounting records at regular intervals. Consider
using a credit card issued by your bank. Large bank institutions offer
online tracking of your credit transactions. This will allow you to monitor
activity and find any irregularities quickly.
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