Your data is encrypted on your computer
The desktop app keeps your checks, payees and register in an encrypted file (AES-256-GCM) in its data folder, and the 5 backup copies there are encrypted the same way. The key is protected by your Windows sign-in (or your Mac Keychain) and, if you set one, your PIN. Someone who copies the folder to another computer can't read it without your PIN or recovery key.
The app shows your recovery key once. Print it or write it down and keep it away from the computer. It opens your data if you forget your PIN or move to a new computer. We don't keep a copy, so we can't recover your data without it.
Backups you export with File > Export backup are encrypted too. They open with your PIN or your recovery key.
Your check data stays on your PC
Your checks, payees and register stay on your PC. Nothing is uploaded unless you choose optional Mail-a-check, which sends that one check's print file securely to OwnChecks for printing and mailing. There is no OwnChecks cloud account, so there is no server holding your bank details that could be breached or shut off. The data lives in your OwnChecks data folder on Windows, and the app keeps the last 5 backup copies there.
What goes over the internet
It needs the internet only to download it, to activate your key once, and for optional Mail-a-check. Your bank details stay on your PC unless you choose to have a check mailed. Activating a key sends only that key, a random install ID, and a one-way hashed computer ID, which is how a license stays on the computers it paid for. Checkout runs on Stripe. This site never receives your full card number.
Mail-a-check
If you choose to have us mail a check, the app sends that one check's print file, including the routing and account numbers and your saved signature, securely to OwnChecks. It is stored encrypted, used only to print and mail that check, kept until the check is mailed so a misprint can be reprinted, and deleted within 3 days after it is mailed. Nothing else in your register is sent.
Password protected with a PIN
You can set a 4 to 8 digit PIN. The app asks for it when it opens and after it sits idle, and waits longer after repeated wrong tries. The activity log records printing, imports, exports and account changes.
For the best protection, lock your PC when you step away, choose a longer PIN, and keep your recovery key and backups somewhere safe.
The installer
The installer is not code-signed yet, so Windows and your browser may warn that it is not recognized. The install pageshows each screen and publishes the SHA-256 checksum so you can confirm the file you downloaded is ours.
Checks and check stock
Treat blank check stock like a checkbook. Lock it up, void any check that misprints, and confirm with your bank that it accepts the checks you print. OwnChecks does not move money and is not affiliated with any bank.
The legal version
The privacy notice covers this website, email and purchases. Questions go to support@ownchecks.com.