Security and the ADA

Does your bank employ the use of thumbprints from non-customers to deter fraudulent check cashing? Many banks do and there have been great success stories of lowered losses as a result of such a program. But here is one story that doesn't ring of success. While I am all for policies and procedures being followed, there is always room for common sense to avoid public relations nightmares like this.

Steve Valdez spoke on NBC, Fox and CBS news shows as well as Chicago radio. His wife banks at Bank of America. He has an account with a credit union. She wrote him a check which he went into a branch of Bank of America to cash. The teller looked at the photo ID provided, he offered two, but told him a thumbprint was needed. She confirmed this with the manager so they refused the check. The problem is, Steve Valdez was born without arms and uses prostetics. He couldn't provide a thumbprint under any circumstance.

Anne Pace who is a spokeswoman for the bank said that two photo IDs should have been sufficient. A bank regional vice president personally called Valdez to apologize. And while he said he didn't want the media attention, he did want the bank to better meet the needs of the disabled.

If you use thumb-printing in your bank, what would happen at your branches? Would two photo IDs be sufficient and would your staff know this could over-ride the required thumbprint, or at least in the case of someone not able to provide it?