The U.S. Postal Service has launched a redesigned money order this month with added security features to deter a post-pandemic uptick in mail fraud.

The upgraded red, white and blue design adds a watermark, holographic security thread and QR code directing users to the USPS website. It also replaces the paper used on the older green documents with "tamper-resistant material."

Fraud experts interviewed by The Washington Times said the new features will make it harder for criminals using specialized printers and software to counterfeit the document.

They said the design update could also help federal agents identify suspicious transactions and larger-scale frauds such as fake lotteries, bogus sweepstakes, and romance scams that involve soliciting money through the mail from unsuspecting victims.

"I think everyone benefits from the added security features," said Mike Martel, a postal inspector and spokesman at the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which investigates mail crimes. "There are a whole host of scams out there right now. Always remember that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is."

Millions of Americans purchase money orders annually from the post office, banks and grocery stores to send payments more securely through the mail. Each money order is capped at $1,000.

In 2024, the Postal Service said it issued 58.5 million money orders.

In an annual report last year, the Postal Inspection Service reported learning that The Blossoms Experience, a Miami hydroponics shop, had become the top purchaser of postal money orders in South Florida.

Subsequent investigation revealed a sweeping mail order scam and roughly $22 million in cash hidden behind the walls of the home of Luis Hernandez, the store's co-owner.

To read the complete article, see:
Postal Service launches redesigned money order to deter thieves(https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/feb/12/postal-service-launches-redesigned-money-order-det/)

For more information, see:
Postal Service to Sell Newly Redesigned Money Orders(https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2025/0122-postal-service-to-sell-newly-redesigned-money-orders.htm)