A Closer Look at Security Features on Paper Checks
- There are several security symbols on checks that can help detect fraudulent checks.
- These include microprinting, multi-colored backgrounds, and chemical reactive check stock
- OrboGraph's upcoming Innovation Conference and Check Fraud Roundtable explore these issues, among many others
A few weeks ago, we took a look at the re-emergence of check security symbols, noting that fraudsters -- attempting to maximize their counterfeiting output -- are either unable to recreate the security symbols or have decided it's not worth the effort.
After reading the post, several organizations and #FraudFighters reached out to us to provide additional information on the topic. Inquiries ranged from what security features are still visible after binarization to which are able to be analyzed by image forensic systems.
In the previous article, we noted a specific use case of a padlock icon within the border. This is just one method; there are dozens of other security features that are placed on checks, depending on which printer from which the individual or organization purchases their check stock. From the perspective of check fraud detection there are several types of security symbols that are flawed or erased during binarization, including microprinting, multi-colored backgrounds, and chemical reactive check stock.
Let's take a look at check security features and how they are analyzed by image forensic AI check fraud detection.
Security Symbols on Checks for Fraud Detection
There are several different security symbols that are still visible during the binarization process that can help detect fraudulent checks, particularly counterfeits.
As noted in our OrboAnywhere Turbo 6.0 Release notes (click here to request a copy), we gathered samples of check images with a wide range of security symbols for initial analysis, mapping these symbols to various fraud use cases experienced by our clients. The OrbNet Innovation Lab prioritized the development of the most important symbols, and developed detection and forensic capabilities around a targeted subset. These include:
Image forensic AI analyzes the incoming check image, analyzing the shape and size of the security symbol AND the relative location to other text fields. These are compared to previously cleared items to detect any inconsistencies.
The technology goes beyond symbols, analyzing borders of the check as well. Here we are looking for inconsistency in size, shape, location, and any missing symbols embedded into the border.
As fraudsters evolve their tactics, OrboGraph is committed to constantly adapting its technologies to stay one step ahead of them. From our embedded rules engine to ongoing development of new analyzers, we continue to prioritize substantial investments in our technologies, protecting financial institutions and their customers.
Interested in learning more? Join us on September 15-17, 2025, in Mclean, VA for our Innovation Conference and Check Fraud Roundtable, where our Accelerating to the Future -- OrboAnywhere Turbo session will dive deeper into check security symbols detection.