Thumbprint Signature® Program

The Thumbprint Signature® program was developed by the Texas Bankers Association and the Clearing House Association of the Southwest with the help of law enforcement officials and the full support of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. More than 80 Illinois financial institutions participate in the program. The success of the Thumbprint Signature® program has prompted 38 states to adopt similar programs.

The program works as a natural deterrent. When non-account holders ask to cash a check, in addition to requesting the standard forms of identification, participating financial institutions also ask them to place an impression of their thumbprint on the face of the check. A small “inkless” touch pad facilitates the process. Although the touch pad looks and operates just like a traditional inkpad, it leaves no stain or residue on users or clothing. The procedure is quick, simple and clean.

Criminals seeking to commit check fraud are unlikely to put their thumbprints on bogus checks. Most likely they will try their schemes elsewhere, and those who are foolish enough to cooperate leave a positive I.D. that can be turned over to law enforcement.

Thumbprint Signature® does more than prevent fraud—it’s an effective crime-fighting tool. Thumbprint Signature® dramatically speeds up the investigation’s identification process. Without the program it could take as long as six weeks—if at all—to identify the perpetrators of check fraud; it can now take less than 48 hours. The program has been used as evidence in many cases and has assisted in the follow-up investigation of burglaries, thefts and crimes other than forgeries.

There is no start-up fee for the program other than the cost of the actual Thumbprint pads and products themselves. Financial institutions can order decals to post at all entrances to let people know they are participating in the program and warn potential criminals that their crimes will not go undetected. Teller window displays and statement stuffers are also available.

For details about implementing the program at your financial institution today, contact Tamela Squires at 800-783-2265 or click here to place an order by credit card or download order form.