A cheque MICR code is a barcode which contains a unique numeric value which enables a clerk to track and store information related to cheques that have been processed and are in transit. This ensures that there are no mistakes in processing time as well as ensuring that cheques are processed quickly so that they can be returned quickly at the end of the month or the year. The information that is contained in the code must be encrypted so that only those authorized under the Security Order Act can access it and use it for their purposes. The MICR code is used with cheques in the financial sector, with cheque numbers being encrypted before being transmuted into the appropriate banking encoding. This makes forgery difficult and reduces the risk of identity theft in the financial sector.
There are many cheque MICR codes available in the market which may be used in many different applications. They are used primarily in the banking sector but are also used in other industries where there may be the need for quick processing of cheques and to avoid the risk of cheque misuse. For example, with the automated clearing house system now available for processing debit and credit card transactions, cheque numbers may also be encrypted so that they cannot be copied and used by others without the proper authorization. The Security Order Act also requires that cheque numbers and other related information be encrypted or prepared in a way that cannot be deciphered by anyone not involved in banking activities.
The cheque MICR code is also required to meet strict requirements in the United States. It is a nine-digit number that is required to be encrypted or printed on the MICR label. In Canada, cheque numbers are also encrypted or printed on the labels of financial transactions. To make sure that cheque information is protected at all times, cheque number processing is often done by specialized software that is only accessible by authorized personnel and security agencies. The use of cheque software makes it impossible to modify or change the account holder's information without their consent. Also, since cheque MICR codes are considered to be private information that cannot be shared with third parties, all cheque transactions go through the legal process of authorization, protection and confidentiality.