Chapter 8, Problem 8.33ASME

(Check Protection) Computers are frequently used in check-writing systems, such as payroll and accounts payable applications. Many stories circulate regarding weekly paychecks being printed (by mistake) for amounts in excess of $1 million. Weird amounts are printed by computerized check-writing systems because of human error and/or machine failure. Systems designers, of course, make every effort to build controls into their systems to prevent erroneous checks from being issued.

Another serious problem is the intentional alteration of a check amount by someone who intends to cash it fraudulently. To prevent a dollar amount from being altered, most computerized check-writing systems employ a technique called check protection.

Checks designed for imprinting by computer contain a fixed number of spaces in which the computer may print an amount. Suppose a paycheck contains nine blank spaces in which the computer is supposed to print the amount of a weekly paycheck. If the amount is large, then all nine of those spaces will be filled—for example:

11,230.60 (check amount)

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123456789 (position numbers)

On the other hand, if the amount is less than $1,000, then several of the spaces will ordinarily be left blank—for example,

99.87

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123456789

contains four blank spaces. If a check is printed with blank spaces, it’s easier for someone to alter the amount of the check. To prevent such alteration, many check-writing systems insert leading asterisks to protect the amount as follows:

****9987

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123456789

Write a program that inputs a dollar amount to be printed on a check and then prints the amount in check-protected format with leading asterisks if necessary. Assume that nine spaces are available for printing an amount.