The concept of transmitting a physical payment instrument electronically raises concerns regarding security and legality. While the image of a check can be sent via email, this action alone does not constitute a valid transfer of funds. A digital image lacks the endorsements and security features present on a physical check, rendering it unusable for direct deposit or negotiation at a financial institution.
The primary benefit of electronically transmitting a check image lies in its potential for record-keeping and information sharing. Businesses might share check images internally for auditing purposes or with clients as proof of payment. However, this practice should not be confused with the regulated processes for electronic check processing governed by laws like the Check 21 Act. The historical context reveals a shift from solely paper-based transactions to hybrid systems incorporating digital images, driving efficiency but necessitating enhanced security measures.
Understanding the limitations associated with sending a check image via email is crucial. This method is fundamentally different from utilizing online banking portals or authorized electronic payment platforms. Subsequent sections will delve into secure alternatives for electronic payments, highlight the risks associated with transmitting financial data via email, and provide guidance on best practices for ensuring secure and compliant financial transactions.
1. Security Vulnerabilities
The practice of transmitting check images via email introduces significant security vulnerabilities that necessitate careful consideration. The inherent lack of encryption and authentication protocols in standard email communications exposes sensitive financial data to potential interception and misuse.
-
Data Interception Risks
Email communication is inherently vulnerable to interception by malicious actors. Check images sent via email are transmitted as attachments, typically without encryption. This allows unauthorized individuals who gain access to the sender’s or recipient’s email account, or who intercept the data in transit, to view and potentially misuse the check information. Real-world examples include phishing attacks targeting email credentials, leading to widespread data breaches and financial losses. The implications, in this context, range from unauthorized fund transfers to identity theft.
-
Lack of Authentication
Email communication lacks robust authentication mechanisms. It is relatively easy to spoof email addresses, making it difficult to verify the true origin of a message containing a check image. This increases the risk of phishing attacks where individuals are tricked into believing they are receiving a legitimate check image from a trusted source when, in reality, it is a fraudulent attempt to gather personal or financial information. For instance, a fraudster could impersonate a vendor, sending a check image that, when examined, leads to malware installation or data harvesting. This illustrates the critical authentication gap inherent in email transmissions.
-
Storage Risks
Storing check images within email servers and local email clients presents a long-term security risk. Even if the immediate transmission is secure, the archived data remains vulnerable to future breaches. Email servers are often targeted by hackers seeking access to sensitive information, and compromised accounts can expose historical email data, including check images. A common scenario involves a company’s email server being breached, resulting in the theft of financial records, including stored check images. The ongoing availability of this data amplifies the potential for identity theft and financial fraud.
-
Malware Distribution
Check images can be used as a vector for distributing malware. Cybercriminals may embed malicious code within the image file or use the image as a lure to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links. For example, a check image disguised as a legitimate invoice attachment could contain a virus that infects the recipient’s computer when opened. This allows the attacker to gain control of the system and potentially access sensitive financial information. The implications are far-reaching, potentially compromising an entire organization’s security infrastructure.
These security vulnerabilities highlight the inherent risks associated with transmitting check images via email. While email may offer convenience, the potential for data interception, lack of authentication, storage risks, and malware distribution significantly outweigh any perceived benefits. Employing secure electronic payment methods and adhering to best practices for data security is crucial to mitigating these risks.
2. Fraud Potential
The transmission of check images via email inherently elevates the risk of fraudulent activities due to the ease with which these images can be manipulated and exploited. The absence of secure channels and verification protocols makes this method a prime target for various forms of fraud.
-
Check Alteration
Once a check image is sent via email, it can be easily altered using readily available image editing software. Payee names, amounts, and even routing and account numbers can be modified without leaving obvious traces. For example, a fraudster could intercept a check image, change the payee to their own name, and then deposit the altered check. Financial institutions might not detect the alteration immediately, leading to financial losses for the account holder. This risk is substantially lower with secure electronic payment systems that utilize digital signatures and encryption.
-
Duplicate Depositing
A significant fraud risk stems from the potential for duplicate depositing. A recipient could deposit the original physical check and also attempt to deposit the check image sent via email. While banks have systems to detect duplicate deposits, these systems are not foolproof, especially when dealing with different banks or accounts. A common scenario involves a fraudster depositing the physical check at one bank and the digital image at another, exploiting the time lag in transaction processing to withdraw funds before the duplication is detected. This highlights the vulnerability arising from the lack of a single, verifiable record.
-
Phishing and Social Engineering
Email is a common vector for phishing attacks. Fraudsters can use deceptive emails to trick individuals into sending check images under false pretenses. They might impersonate legitimate vendors or clients, requesting a copy of a check for verification purposes. For instance, a fraudster could pose as a supplier requesting a check image to confirm payment details, using the information to commit identity theft or create counterfeit checks. This underscores the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any request for financial information received via email.
-
Counterfeit Check Creation
The information contained within a check image can be used to create counterfeit checks. Fraudsters can use the routing number, account number, and bank logo to produce realistic-looking counterfeit checks, which they can then use to make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals. A real-world example involves criminal organizations using stolen check images to mass-produce counterfeit checks, distributing them through networks for fraudulent transactions. This highlights the substantial financial risks associated with the unauthorized dissemination of check images.
These facets of fraud potential illustrate the significant risks associated with transmitting check images via email. The ease of alteration, the possibility of duplicate depositing, the vulnerability to phishing attacks, and the potential for counterfeit check creation all contribute to a high-risk environment. Opting for secure electronic payment methods and prioritizing data security protocols is imperative to mitigating these risks and protecting financial assets.
3. Legal Restrictions
The practice of sending a check image through email is not explicitly prohibited by a single, overarching federal law in the United States. However, various legal and regulatory considerations indirectly restrict or discourage this method of transmission due to the associated security and fraud risks. The Check 21 Act (Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act) primarily focuses on facilitating electronic check clearing by creating a substitute check, which is a legal copy of the original. This act indirectly impacts the practice by promoting secure electronic exchange between banks rather than unsecured transmission via email. Furthermore, state laws concerning data privacy and consumer protection can impose liability for negligent handling of sensitive financial information, including check images. A company that sends an employee’s check image without adequate security measures might violate state data breach notification laws if the email is intercepted and the employee’s financial data is compromised. This demonstrates a direct causal relationship between inadequate security and potential legal ramifications.
The importance of legal restrictions lies in setting a framework for responsible data handling. While sending a check image via email might seem convenient, doing so without proper safeguards exposes individuals and organizations to legal liabilities. Federal regulations such as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), although primarily focused on financial institutions, emphasize the need for protecting customer financial information. Businesses that handle check images as part of their operations must implement reasonable security measures to comply with GLBA’s safeguarding rules. For instance, a small business emailing check images to its accountant without encryption could face legal scrutiny if a data breach occurs. The practical significance is that legal compliance is not merely a formality but a crucial component of risk management, protecting both the sender and recipient from potential legal consequences and financial losses.
In summary, while no single law explicitly forbids sending check images through email, a confluence of federal and state regulations related to data privacy, consumer protection, and financial security effectively discourages the practice due to its inherent risks. The legal framework emphasizes the responsibility of entities handling sensitive financial information to implement appropriate security measures. Challenges arise in interpreting and applying these regulations to specific situations, requiring businesses to seek legal counsel and implement robust security protocols. Understanding these legal restrictions is crucial for ensuring compliance and mitigating the risks associated with transmitting financial information electronically, linking directly to the overarching need for secure electronic payment alternatives.
4. Data Interception
Data interception, in the context of transmitting check images via email, presents a significant security vulnerability. The unencrypted nature of standard email communication allows malicious actors to potentially intercept the check image during transit. This interception occurs when unauthorized individuals gain access to the data stream between the sender and recipient. A primary cause of this vulnerability is the lack of end-to-end encryption in typical email protocols. The effect is that sensitive information, including bank account numbers and routing numbers, becomes exposed to unauthorized access. The importance of understanding data interception lies in recognizing the inherent risk of transmitting financial data via unsecured channels. For example, a cybercriminal could use packet sniffing techniques on a public Wi-Fi network to intercept an email containing a check image, subsequently using the information for fraudulent purposes.
The practical significance of data interception extends beyond individual cases. Large-scale data breaches often involve the interception of email communications. These breaches can compromise thousands of check images, leading to widespread identity theft and financial losses. Law firms and accounting firms, which frequently exchange financial documents with clients via email, are particularly vulnerable. Implementing encryption protocols, such as Transport Layer Security (TLS), can mitigate the risk of data interception, but TLS only secures the connection between email servers, not the entire communication path. A more robust solution involves using secure file transfer protocols or dedicated encrypted email services. Failure to address data interception risks can lead to legal and regulatory consequences, as organizations are obligated to protect sensitive customer information.
In summary, data interception represents a critical threat when transmitting check images via email. The ease with which unencrypted email communication can be intercepted necessitates the adoption of secure alternatives for transferring financial information. Challenges arise in balancing convenience with security, as many individuals and organizations continue to rely on email despite its inherent vulnerabilities. A thorough understanding of data interception and its potential consequences is essential for making informed decisions about how to handle sensitive financial documents. The broader theme is the need for increased awareness and adoption of secure communication practices to protect against financial fraud and identity theft.
5. Privacy Breaches
The transmission of check images via email introduces significant privacy breach risks. When a check image is sent through an unsecured email channel, it becomes susceptible to unauthorized access. This unauthorized access constitutes a privacy breach, exposing sensitive personal and financial information. A check image contains details such as the account holder’s name, address, bank account number, and routing number. The cause of these breaches often stems from the lack of encryption and authentication mechanisms in standard email protocols. The effect is the potential for identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage to both individuals and organizations. For instance, a hacker who gains access to an email account containing check images can use this information to create counterfeit checks, make unauthorized transactions, or sell the data on the dark web. The importance of recognizing this connection lies in understanding the tangible harm that can result from seemingly innocuous actions like sending a check image via email.
Practical applications demonstrate the severity of these privacy breaches. Consider the scenario where a small business owner emails check images to a bookkeeper for accounting purposes. If the bookkeeper’s email account is compromised, the financial information of the business owner’s customers is also exposed. This can lead to legal liabilities and a loss of customer trust. Organizations handling check images must implement secure transmission methods, such as encrypted file transfer protocols, and adhere to data protection regulations to minimize the risk of privacy breaches. Furthermore, employee training on secure email practices and data handling is crucial to prevent accidental or negligent disclosures of sensitive information. The implementation of robust security measures acts as a safeguard against potential privacy violations, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of financial data.
In summary, the correlation between sending check images via email and privacy breaches underscores the need for heightened awareness and stringent security protocols. Challenges arise in balancing convenience with security, as many individuals and organizations continue to rely on email despite its inherent vulnerabilities. A comprehensive understanding of the risks involved and the implementation of secure alternatives are essential for mitigating the potential for privacy breaches. The broader theme is the necessity of prioritizing data protection in an increasingly interconnected digital environment, safeguarding personal and financial information from unauthorized access and misuse.
6. Compliance violations
Compliance violations arise when transmitting check images via email due to inherent security and privacy risks associated with unsecured electronic communication. Several regulations mandate the protection of sensitive financial data, and failing to adhere to these standards can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. The use of email to transmit check images without adequate safeguards directly contravenes fundamental compliance principles.
-
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) Non-Compliance
The GLBA requires financial institutions and related entities to protect consumer financial information. Sending check images via email without encryption or proper access controls fails to meet the GLBA’s safeguarding rules. For instance, a mortgage company emailing check images containing customer account details without encryption violates GLBA, potentially leading to penalties and legal action from regulatory bodies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This breach can result in substantial fines and damage the company’s reputation.
-
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) Implications
While PCI DSS primarily addresses credit card data, any organization handling financial information, including bank account details found on checks, must maintain a secure environment. Transmitting check images via unsecured email channels creates a vulnerable environment, increasing the risk of data breaches and non-compliance with PCI DSS requirements. A retailer emailing a check image received as payment exposes customer banking details, potentially triggering a PCI DSS audit and significant remediation costs. Furthermore, the retailer could face restrictions on payment processing until compliance is restored.
-
State Data Breach Notification Laws
Numerous state laws mandate that organizations notify individuals and regulatory agencies in the event of a data breach involving personal information. Check images contain personally identifiable information (PII), including bank account numbers and addresses. If a check image is intercepted from an email and results in unauthorized access, the organization is legally obligated to notify affected individuals, potentially incurring costs for notification, credit monitoring, and legal defense. For example, a healthcare provider emailing patient check images for billing purposes must comply with state data breach laws if a data breach occurs due to unsecured email transmission, leading to potential lawsuits and regulatory fines.
-
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Considerations
Although HIPAA primarily focuses on protected health information (PHI), if a check image contains information related to healthcare payments or insurance details, HIPAA regulations may apply. Sending such images via unencrypted email channels constitutes a HIPAA violation if it compromises the confidentiality and integrity of PHI. A medical billing company emailing check images containing patient insurance details exposes PHI, potentially leading to HIPAA fines and corrective action plans mandated by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This illustrates the complex interplay between financial and health data protection requirements.
The convergence of these compliance considerations underscores the inherent risks associated with transmitting check images via email. Organizations must adopt secure alternatives, such as encrypted file transfer protocols and secure online portals, to mitigate the risk of compliance violations. The implications of non-compliance extend beyond financial penalties, impacting an organization’s reputation, legal standing, and long-term viability. A proactive approach to data protection and adherence to relevant regulations are essential for safeguarding sensitive financial information and maintaining compliance.
7. Financial Risks
The transmission of check images via email introduces a spectrum of financial risks stemming from the inherent insecurity of this communication method. These risks encompass potential losses due to fraud, theft, and legal repercussions, highlighting the necessity for secure financial data handling practices. Understanding these risks is paramount in evaluating the appropriateness of transmitting financial documents through email.
-
Fraudulent Check Cashing
A significant financial risk arises from the potential for fraudulent check cashing. Once a check image is transmitted via email, it can be intercepted and manipulated. Fraudsters can alter the payee information or amount and then deposit the fraudulent check, leading to direct financial losses. For example, an employee emailing a check image to a vendor could have that image intercepted, altered, and cashed by an unauthorized party. The implications extend to potential overdraft fees and the time-consuming process of disputing the fraudulent transaction with the financial institution.
-
Identity Theft Leading to Financial Loss
Check images contain sensitive personal information, including bank account numbers and routing numbers, which can be exploited for identity theft. If a check image is compromised, malicious actors can use this data to access bank accounts, open fraudulent credit lines, or make unauthorized purchases. Consider a scenario where a homeowner emails a check image to a contractor for payment. If that email is intercepted, the homeowner’s banking information is exposed, potentially leading to identity theft and significant financial losses. The recovery process from identity theft is often lengthy and costly, involving credit monitoring, legal fees, and potential loss of creditworthiness.
-
Legal Liabilities and Fines
Failure to protect sensitive financial information can result in legal liabilities and fines. Numerous regulations, such as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) and state data breach notification laws, mandate the safeguarding of customer financial data. Transmitting check images via unsecured email channels constitutes a breach of these regulations, exposing organizations to potential legal action, fines, and reputational damage. For instance, a financial institution emailing check images without encryption is in violation of GLBA and may face substantial penalties. The costs associated with legal defense and regulatory fines can be considerable, impacting the organization’s financial stability.
-
Data Breach Expenses
A data breach involving check images can incur substantial expenses, including forensic investigations, notification costs, credit monitoring services, and legal fees. The cost of managing a data breach can quickly escalate, particularly if the breach affects a large number of individuals. For example, a company that experiences a data breach after emailing check images could incur significant expenses in notifying affected customers, providing credit monitoring services, and defending against potential lawsuits. These expenses can strain the company’s financial resources and negatively impact its bottom line.
These financial risks underscore the importance of employing secure alternatives to transmitting check images via email. Utilizing encrypted file transfer protocols, secure online portals, or electronic payment systems can significantly mitigate these risks and protect financial assets. Adopting robust security measures is essential for safeguarding against fraud, identity theft, legal liabilities, and data breach expenses, thereby ensuring the financial well-being of both individuals and organizations.
8. Forgery risk
The practice of transmitting check images via email introduces a significant forgery risk, directly correlating with the ease of image manipulation and the inherent lack of secure validation mechanisms. A digital image of a check, unlike a physical document with security features, is susceptible to alteration using readily available software. This susceptibility allows unauthorized individuals to modify key components, such as the payee’s name, amount, or even the routing and account numbers, before attempting fraudulent deposit or cashing. The forgery risk is amplified by the fact that a digital image lacks the tactile security elements present on physical checks, making detection of alterations more challenging for both individuals and financial institutions. For example, a fraudster might intercept a check image sent via email, alter the payee information to their own name, and then deposit the altered image through a mobile banking app. The original intention of the check’s sender is thus subverted, resulting in financial loss and potential legal complications. The importance of understanding this link lies in recognizing that sending check images via email significantly lowers the barrier to forgery, increasing the likelihood of fraudulent activities.
Practical applications further illuminate the forgery risk. Small businesses, which often rely on email communication, are particularly vulnerable. Imagine a scenario where a business owner emails a check image to a vendor for payment. If this email is intercepted and the check image altered, the business owner could incur financial losses, experience disrupted vendor relationships, and face potential legal repercussions. Additionally, the absence of standardized digital check validation protocols exacerbates the risk. While banks employ fraud detection systems, these systems are not foolproof, and sophisticated forgeries can evade detection. This highlights the need for robust security measures beyond simply relying on email transmission, such as employing secure file transfer methods or utilizing electronic payment systems with built-in authentication mechanisms. Furthermore, awareness and education among email users are crucial in preventing forgery-related incidents. Recognizing suspicious emails and verifying payment details through independent channels can mitigate the risk of falling victim to forgery schemes.
In summary, the forgery risk associated with transmitting check images via email is a substantial concern, driven by ease of manipulation and the lack of security features. This risk translates into potential financial losses, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. Challenges arise in balancing convenience with security, as many individuals and organizations continue to rely on email despite its inherent vulnerabilities. The broader theme underscores the necessity of adopting secure communication practices and exploring alternative payment methods that offer enhanced protection against forgery, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive security measures in an increasingly digital financial landscape.
9. Alteration Possibilities
The ease with which digital images can be modified introduces significant risks when considering the practice of transmitting check images via email. The lack of inherent security features in email communication, coupled with the susceptibility of digital images to manipulation, makes alteration possibilities a primary concern.
-
Payee Name Modification
The payee name on a check image can be readily altered using image editing software. This allows a malicious actor to redirect funds to an unintended recipient. For example, a fraudster intercepting an emailed check image could change the payee name to their own before depositing the check, effectively diverting funds. The lack of physical security measures, such as watermarks or special paper, exacerbates this risk, making it difficult to detect such alterations.
-
Amount Alteration
The monetary amount on a check image is another vulnerable element. With image editing tools, the numerical and written amount can be altered to inflate the value of the check. A scenario might involve a fraudster increasing the amount on an emailed check image from $100 to $1000 before depositing it. While banks employ fraud detection systems, sophisticated alterations can sometimes evade detection, particularly if the altered image closely resembles the original. This underscores the need for more secure methods of transmitting financial information.
-
Routing and Account Number Manipulation
Altering the routing and account numbers on a check image poses a severe threat. By modifying these details, a fraudster can reroute funds to a completely different account, making it difficult to trace the fraudulent transaction. For instance, a criminal could intercept an emailed check image and change the routing and account numbers to those of a shell account before depositing the check. This type of alteration can have significant financial repercussions, as the funds are diverted to an unknown entity.
-
Signature Forgery
While a signature on a check is intended to authenticate the transaction, a digital image of a signature can be easily copied and pasted onto an altered check image. This allows a fraudster to create a seemingly legitimate check with a forged signature. Consider a situation where a scammer intercepts an emailed check image, copies the signature, and uses it to create numerous fraudulent checks. This illustrates the vulnerability of signatures in the digital realm and the potential for widespread fraud.
These alteration possibilities highlight the inherent dangers of transmitting check images via email. The ease with which these images can be manipulated underscores the need for more secure transmission methods and stringent verification processes. The lack of physical security measures and the sophistication of image editing tools make emailed check images a prime target for fraudulent activities, reinforcing the importance of adopting alternative, secure payment systems.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Electronic Check Transmission
This section addresses common inquiries concerning the electronic transmission of check images. It aims to provide clarity and dispel misconceptions regarding the security and legality of this practice.
Question 1: Is it secure to send a check image through email?
Transmitting a check image via email poses significant security risks. Standard email communication lacks adequate encryption, leaving sensitive financial data vulnerable to interception. Therefore, it is generally not considered secure.
Question 2: What are the legal implications of emailing a check image?
While no specific law explicitly prohibits sending check images via email, various regulations concerning data privacy and financial security indirectly restrict this practice. Failure to protect sensitive financial information can lead to compliance violations and potential legal liabilities.
Question 3: Can a check image sent via email be used for fraudulent purposes?
Yes. Check images transmitted through email can be easily altered and used for fraudulent activities. This includes changing the payee name, amount, or account details, leading to financial losses.
Question 4: What are the alternatives to emailing check images for payment?
Secure alternatives include using online banking portals, electronic fund transfer systems (EFT), and secure file transfer protocols. These methods offer enhanced security features to protect sensitive financial data.
Question 5: What information on a check image is vulnerable if sent via email?
All information on a check image is vulnerable, including the account holder’s name, address, bank account number, routing number, and signature. This information can be exploited for identity theft and financial fraud.
Question 6: How can one verify the legitimacy of a check image received via email?
Independent verification is crucial. Contact the purported sender through a known, trusted channel to confirm the validity of the check and the accuracy of the payment details. Do not rely solely on the information provided in the email.
In summary, transmitting check images via email is inherently risky due to security vulnerabilities and the potential for fraudulent activities. Secure alternatives should be prioritized to protect sensitive financial information and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
The next section explores secure alternatives to sending check images via email, providing practical guidance on safeguarding financial transactions.
Tips to Avoid Risks When Considering Sending Check Information Electronically
These guidelines address risks associated with unsecured transmission of check information. Employ these tips to minimize exposure to fraud, legal complications, and financial losses.
Tip 1: Do not transmit check images via email. Standard email lacks encryption and is vulnerable to interception. This poses a significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive banking information.
Tip 2: Utilize secure payment platforms. Opt for reputable online banking portals, ACH transfers, or other secure electronic payment systems. These platforms employ encryption and authentication protocols to protect financial data.
Tip 3: Implement multi-factor authentication. When using online banking services or payment platforms, enable multi-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring verification beyond a password.
Tip 4: Verify recipient details independently. Before sending any electronic payment, confirm the recipient’s bank account information through a trusted communication channel, such as a phone call or a secure online portal. This helps prevent sending funds to fraudulent accounts.
Tip 5: Securely store financial documents. Avoid storing check images on personal devices or unsecured cloud storage. Implement encryption and access controls to protect sensitive financial data from unauthorized access.
Tip 6: Regularly monitor bank accounts and credit reports. Routinely review bank statements and credit reports for any signs of unauthorized activity. Promptly report any suspicious transactions to the financial institution.
Tip 7: Educate yourself about phishing scams. Be vigilant about phishing emails and social engineering tactics. Never provide sensitive financial information in response to unsolicited requests or suspicious emails.
Adhering to these guidelines significantly reduces the risk of fraud and financial losses associated with unsecured transmission of check information. By prioritizing security and employing secure payment methods, individuals and organizations can protect their financial assets and mitigate potential legal liabilities.
The article will conclude with a summary of the key points and a call to action, reinforcing the importance of secure financial practices.
Can I Send a Check Through Email
This exploration has underscored the considerable risks associated with electronic check transmission. Standard email lacks the necessary security protocols to safeguard sensitive financial information. The inherent vulnerabilities make check images susceptible to interception, alteration, and fraudulent use. Legal and regulatory considerations further discourage this practice due to potential compliance violations and associated liabilities. Therefore, the unencrypted transmission of check images via email presents an unacceptable level of financial risk.
In light of these findings, a commitment to secure financial practices is paramount. Organizations and individuals must prioritize the adoption of secure alternatives, such as encrypted payment platforms and secure file transfer protocols. Prudent financial management demands vigilance and a proactive approach to data protection, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of financial transactions. A failure to adapt to secure alternatives introduces needless risk.
