scope:

This standard establishes the design and usage requirements of a check fraud deterrent icon (CFDI) for visually communicating the presence of security features on a check. The standard specifies minimal overt security features which meet the requirements for deterring both counterfeiting and alteration that printers are to use prior to printing a check fraud deterrent icon onto a check. This standard also establishes the requirements for use of a check fraud deterrent icon, the location on the check for the icon, and the location of and requirements for the associated warning box and verbiage.

Information about specific security features and the nature of fraud that they are useful in deterring can be found in ASC X9/TR 8 Guide to Check Security. Although minimal overt security features are required prior to using a check fraud deterrent icon, the additional use of more overt as well as covert security features is highly encouraged as additional enhancements to deter or identify check fraud.

The presence or absence of security features identified in the warning box can assist parties accepting checks to determine whether an alteration or reproduction of the check may have occurred. The presence of a check fraud deterrent icon does not guarantee the authenticity of either the check or of the presenter of the check without additional verification. The presence of a check fraud deterrent icon does not warrant or guarantee that no fraud is present within the document. The presence of a check fraud deterrent icon simply indicates that the check manufacturer has met the requirements within the standard to promote the use of security features to try to protect against some kinds of check fraud.