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Secure MICR Printer User’s Guide © Source Technologies
September 2005
12 All Rights Reserved
5. Security Issues
Printing negotiable documents from blank paper on desktop MICR laser printers makes
security a top priority for any company embarking on a desktop check printing project.
Good security programs integrate hardware, software, your employees and your financial
institution into a secure check production system. Recent changes relative to the
responsibilities of banks and their customers have a bearing on the ultimate liability for
fraudulent documents. Customers must have systems designed and documented to show
“Ordinary Care and Good Faith Effort” is in place to avoid liability. In the past, financial
institutions generally credited corporations when fraud was discovered. New regulations
attempt to define who may have been negligent in the transaction and put the liability on
that party or parties. Clearly, if a fraudulent occurrence can be traced to a corporation’s
lack of security procedures, or the design of their negotiable documents, the regulations will
protect the banks, or at best case the loss will be shared.
Check Stock Security Features
We have found the following check stock security features to be of merit:
Artificial Watermarks - White on white printing generally on the back reveals words
or patterns when held at an angle. You should state on the front of the check that
this feature is present. It cannot be copied.
Laid Lines - Evenly spaced background lines that make cut and paste alteration
difficult.
Void Pantograph - Background printing of the word VOID or COPY which appears
on photocopies. Some paper suppliers offer enhanced versions of pantographs
which provide more protection from the latest in color copier technology.
Chemical Additives - If an ink eradicator (bleach, acetone, etc.) is applied to the
document, the eradicator creates a permanent stain.
Numbered Check Stock - Sequential numbering printed in dye that penetrates to
the reverse side of the check can be used to verify authenticity. This number may
not relate to the check serial number. This also provides for inventory control of
blank check stock.
NOTE: These quality issues serve as a general guide for check production. You should not
consider these features as an all inclusive list. We recommend consulting with your local
paper supplier for any additional comments or suggestions.