A crossed postal order is a financial instrument used for making payments that is drawn by a post office. It is similar to a money order, but it can only be cashed through a post office. The term "crossed" refers to the fact that two parallel lines are drawn on the face of the order, indicating that it cannot be cashed directly but has to be credited to a bank account. This makes it more secure than an uncrossed postal order, as it reduces the risk of theft or loss during transmission or delivery.