Using Thumbprint Signature
STEPS TO USE IN OBTAINING A THUMBPRINT SIGNATURE
Tellers and other personnel should use the following procedures to obtain a presenter's Thumbprint Signature:
Step 1: Obtain required identification from the presenter.
Step 2: Explain the following to the presenter:
"In order to protect the bank's depositors, we require a Thumbprint Signature on the face of the check. The touch pad is not like an ink pad and will not stain hands or clothes. Our bank has joined other financial institutions in implementing this program to eliminate check fraud."
If necessary, demonstrate use of the pad by obtaining your own fingerprint on scrap paper. Rub your index finger with your thumb to show how the material quickly disappears.
If the presenter refuses to provide the Thumbprint Signature, return the check to the presenter and explain the bank will not cash the check.
Step 3: Request the Thumbprint Signature by stating the following:
"Please press your right thumb on this pad and then press the finger onto the check-right here.”
(Point to the area of the check between the memo and signature lines).
Obtain the presenter's Thumbprint Signature between the memo line and signature line. If this is not possible, select a clear place on the face of the check away from all writing and printed information.
If the presenter "drags" their finger, request the Thumbprint Signature again and instruct the presenter to place the signature in a clear spot on the check.
Step 4: Record the identification information on the check and return the identification to the presenter.
Step 5: Process the transaction utilizing normal operating procedures.
SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY
If the presenter leaves the branch abruptly, and leaves the identification or the check, immediately contact a supervisor or security personnel. Tellers should document the time and date of the transaction and the presenter's description. Tellers and officers should follow established documentation and reporting procedures regarding known or suspected fraudulent transactions.
CARE OF TOUCH PADS
Touch pads should be closed tightly when they are not being used to prevent the pads from drying out. The pads. When cared for properly, they will last up to 18 months or will produce 400 to 600 impressions before having to be replaced.
NOTIFICATION TO BUSINESS/COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS
It is recommended that all participating financial institutions write to their business/commercial customers at least two weeks prior to implementing the Thumbprint Signature program. Letters and/or follow-up telephone calls should encourage these customers to notify their employees that a Thumbprint Signature will be required if the employees are not depository customers of the institution. Notification of the program is a courtesy to business/commercial customers and will assist in the process of making the policy known to larger numbers of non-customers who may seek to cash checks. DBA has prepared prototype letters for use in notifying customers.
REACTION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES AND BANK REGULATORS
Details of the Thumbprint Signature program have been shared with the FBI, many local law enforcement authorities, and the bank regulatory agencies, and the program has received widespread support from these and other groups.
PROGRAM IDENTIFICATION, CUSTOMER AWARENESS, AND COLLATERAL MATERIALS
A Thumbprint Signature logo has been developed and generic customer information materials are available for use in making customers and non-customers aware of an institution's participation in the program. It is recommended that participants use a Thumbprint Signature decal on all entrances to banking facilities. Security professionals believe this early visibility of the program will act as a significant deterrent. Camera-ready materials are available for institutions wishing to customize the materials with their own names and logos. Camera-ready art or generic materials may be purchased from the Delaware Bankers Association, 5 E. Reed Street, P.O. Box 781, Dover, DE 19903. Call Susan Highfield at 302-733-7452 for more details.
MEDIA RELEASES/COVERAGE
Participating financial institutions may elect to issue a local news release announcing their participation. If they are not already familiar with the program, local law enforcement agencies should be briefed so they can be supportive if contacted by the media for comment. If you would like to alert the press about your participation in the program, sample media communication information is enclosed.
POSITIVE REMINDERS
The Thumbprint Signature of an individual cannot be forged.
The American Bankers Association, and 30 state associations have determined that one way to reduce check fraud is to implement a program using the Thumbprint Signature and Inkless Pad.
The Thumbprint Signature leaves a clear, clean fingerprint for positive identification and is very easy for an individual to clean off of their finger.
There is no expensive electronic equipment to install and maintain.
There are no files to be kept.