Thumbprint Signature
The Thumbprint Signature touch pad is intended to deter counterfeit and stolen check fraud by obtaining a "Thumbprint Signature" (fingerprint) from non-customers (customers who do not have a depository relationship with the institution) when cashing “on-us” and “not-on-us” checks. The Thumbprint Signature can be used by law enforcement agencies in the investigation of fraud claims made by account holders, and financial institution's usage of the program is a natural deterrent. Participants will not retain the Thumbprint Signature in their files and the signature will be shared with law enforcement officials only in cases of suspected fraud.
Texas Bankers Association developed the Thumbprint Signature program in conjunction with the Clearing House Association of the Southwest, after pilot programs in Arizona and Nevada were found to be significantly helpful in decreasing check fraud. Since the inception of the program, the test group of participating banks has experienced an average 63% reduction in fraudulent checks passed by non-customers. Thumbprint Signature has become very popular with banks of all sizes because it offers an easy, inexpensive way to prevent fraud without inconveniencing customers.
The touch pad is a two-inch inkless fingerprinting device that leaves no residue on the finger. Users simply rub their fingers together and any remaining ink disappears. The touch pad is not the same as an ink pad and will not leave ink on a user's finger or clothing.
HOW THE TOUCH PAD WORKS
The presenter of the check presses the thumb of his or her right hand on the pad and places the impression of the finger on the face of the check between the memo and signature lines. If the presenter is disabled and cannot use his or her right thumb, an impression of the left thumb is placed on the check and noted "left hand" on the check next to the thumbprint. Should both thumbs be disabled, an impression of the right index finger is taken and "right index finger" is noted next to the print.
NOTE: The Thumbprint Signature is not used as identification, but is recorded in addition to customary I.D.
WHEN TO OBTAIN A THUMBPRINT SIGNATURE
A Thumbprint Signature should be obtained when:
- a non-customer presents an “on-us” or “not-on-us” check for encashment. This includes employees of commercial or business account customers who present payroll checks drawn on the participating institution;
- a non-customer presents an “on-us” check for exchange to a cashier's check; a non-customer presents a government check for encashment.
Note: To comply with all applicable federal laws and regulations, a Thumbprint SIgnature should be obtained from EVERY NON-CUSTOMER EVERY TIME a check is presented for payment. Distinctions should not be made based on appearance or suspicious versus non-suspicious circumstances. Financial institutions in rural markets may want to develop a specific policy requiring a Thumbprint Signature only from non-residents of the community or county, but is important to apply equal treatment to all non-customers once a policy is adopted.