Microprinting on checks is just a security feature….one among many. It's purpose is to prevent photocopying or scanning checks. A 'padlock' printed on the check alerts the reciepient that there are security features on the check such as microprinting, and others. For example, invisible watermarks, when photocopied, will show the word “VOID” on the check.

These security features may prevent companies from being held liable when fraud occurs. The Uniform Commercial Code is a comprehensive law governing commercial transactions. It includes 10 articles, two of which pertain to checks?Articles 3 and 4.

Although these articles contain legalese and their interpretations may vary somewhat by state, their basic premise asserts that banks and their customers can be held liable for check fraud if they don't show “ordinary care” in trying to prevent it.

I just had a check fraud situation where a person bought some checks from Office Max, and typed our company name on them. The police showed me some of the safeguards on the check, including the microprinting….not only on the signature line, but the border of the check as well.

Hope this info helps.