All direct inquirers are assigned at least one three digit access code. When combined with the direct's FINS identifier number, this code
will allow access to the database for inquiring on certificates (note: an access code is not required for reporting lost certificates,
though a FINS number is).
All inquiries are made through the SIC® website or by transmitting electronic files. When a direct inquirer logs onto the website, the
inquiry page requires the CUSIP number and certificate number of the security to perform the inquiry. If known, prefix, shares, and/or
issue date may also be entered to further improve the accuracy of the inquiry result. If there are no reports of a security as being
lost or stolen, the website will indicate this by displaying "no match". A transaction number is assigned to each inquiry. This allows
the Inquirer to keep a record of inquiries made to SIC® for audit purposes.
If only the CUSIP and certificate number are entered and match a report on the database, the website will indicate this by displaying that
the certificate is a "potential hit". When a potential hit occurs the inquirer should click on the link to receive the reporting institutions
contact information and contact the institution to receive more information.
If additional certificate information is entered (CUSIP, certificate number, prefix, shares, and/or issue date) and the information matches
the report the inquiry is said to be a "hit" or a "match". In such case the inquiring institution can click on the "hit" link to receive
additional detail. The detail page will display the match result for each optional field (prefix, shares, and issue date) as well as the
reporting institution’s contact information.