Overview

Check fraud costs the bank and clients millions of dollars each year. In an effort to combat crime and protect our clients, Capital City Bank (CCB) has joined the Thumbprint Signature Program. This program is designed to be a deterrent for criminals seeking to commit check fraud as criminals may be reluctant to put their thumbprint on bogus checks. Those willing to cooperate, leave a positive Identification (ID) that can be turned over to law enforcement. A thumbprint is not a replacement for an endorsement on the back of the check.

There have been occurrences when criminals seeking to commit check fraud have provided their thumbprint or asked an unsuspecting 3rd party to cash the check on their behalf. Obtaining a thumbprint is not foolproof and cannot be solely relied upon to override red flags or suspicions. 

This thumbprint program does not apply to clients with a depository relationship at CCB.

Requirements 

All non-clients are required to apply their right thumbprint on any check being cashed along with an endorsement on the back of the check. 

The presenter of the check must press their right thumb on the thumbprint pad and place their thumb on the face of the check in any unprinted area.

• Explain the following to the non-client:
  • "In order to protect our clients, we require a Thumbprint Signature on the face of the check. Capital City Bank has joined other financial institutions in the country in implementing this program to eliminate check fraud."
• If presenter refuses, return the check to the presenter and explain that the bank is not able to cash the check. If necessary, refer presenter to a supervisor/manager.
• If the presenter accepts the thumbprint requirement, process the transaction according to check cashing procedures. 
  • Take extra care, particularly when the office location is distant from their stated residence address. Examine the check closely for authenticity. See Transaction Guidelines > Red Flags > Spotting Fraudulent Checks.
• Drive-in transactions should be processed in the same manner as in the lobby. The touch pad should be sent out to the presenter through the drive-in tube.
• The thumbprint signature does NOT replace the requirements for other proper identification.
• Always make sure that the thumbprint signature is NOT on the check prior to you receiving the check. If the thumbprint is already on the check, have the presenter apply to another thumbprint that you can witness.

General Information 

Participating banks do not maintain a data bank of thumbprint signatures. These signatures are used by law enforcement officials only in cases where fraud is suspected.