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.