I recently presented a personal check ($75) to the bank on which it was drawn requesting that it be cashed. The teller informed me that since I was not an account holder I must put my thumb print on the check (I was given an ink pad), give them my home phone number, as well as present my drivers license. Is this procedure something new? Is it even legal? I was not comfortable at all with this policy but the bank refused to cash the check unless I complied.
The bank may employ any reasonable policy it feels is necessary to identify the customer. Inkless fingerprints have been used for years, and often with great success at reducing losses. The bank needs to ensure it is cashing the check for the right person. Both they, and their customer who wrote the check want to know that the correct party receives the money.
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