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Pile of confiscated fake IDs

Mobile Apps For Detecting Fraudulent IDs Catch Less Than 35% of Fakes

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Read on Bezinga

After testing five of the best ID scanner apps for age verification, testers at IDScan.net determined that the AppStore’s top 5 apps for fake ID detection don’t actually catch fakes. When testing 100 known fake IDs against 5 applications:

  • 2 of the applications caught zero fake IDs.
  • 1 of the applications caught 16% of the fakes. 
  • 1 of the applications caught 22% of the fakes.
  • The highest performing mobile app caught 77% of fakes, but incorrectly flagged nearly 30% of real IDs as fraudulent.
  • 3 of the apps did not indicate when IDs were expired.
  • These results do not compare favorably to ID scanning solutions that utilize specialty authentication hardware, which caught 98% of known fakes.

Mobile phone hardware does not include the required technology for authenticating IDs. True authentication requires UV, IR, and white light scanning and examination of the document from multiple angles. It also requires matching against hologram and watermark libraries for micro-inconsistencies in the ID format and design. No commercially available phone offers these capabilities. 

But even basic ID validation, which can be done using a phone-camera, is lacking. 2D barcode (PDF417) validation should at minimum check for common inconsistencies in the format of barcode data structure. Several of the applications market themselves as age detection tools, yet are doing no more than basic ID parsing and checking the date of birth field against the current date.

“Not all 2D barcode scanning is created equally. Bars, clubs, and dispensaries who download these apps looking to stay compliant and keep minors out, likely don’t realize that the apps they are relying on to keep them safe are actually not validating IDs at all,” said Andrey Stavnovnov, CTO at IDScan.net. 

Testing found that these apps found another crucial issue for customers – consistent usage of the applications quickly drained phone batteries. A busy night at a nightclub or dispensary might involve scanning hundreds of IDs over several hours. These applications require the phone to be plugged in to handle that kind of scanning volume. Additionally, because phones lack automatic barcode focusing, security teams will spend longer scanning each idea. In low-light environments this can increase check-in times and cause delay for customers. When batteries fail, and lines slow due to sluggish technology, venues may be forced to return to manual ID verification, which is even more prone to error and fraud.

Cities around the country are working to combat underage drinking and use of fake IDs. 32% of college students admit to having a fake ID, and with students returning to campus use of fakes is on the rise. 

The ideal solution is ID scanning software and authentication hardware that can perform the following: at least 400dpi image analysis, white light, UV light, and IR light scanning, and checks against a hologram and watermark library. Front and back matching using OCR to compare against the 2D barcode is also recommended. When combined, these solutions can reliably detect nearly 98% of fake IDs and ensure the highest degree of compliance with state and federal age restriction laws.

Cigarette Sales - Nevada AB360

Overview of Nevada AB360 – ID Scanning For Tobacco & Vape Sales

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Starting January 1, 2023, all sales of tobacco products in the State of Nevada will require ID scanning. Here’s a breakdown of the new AB360 Law, and what your store or venue needs to stay compliant.

The AB360 Legalese

A person shall not sell, distribute or offer to sell cigarettes, cigarette paper or other tobacco products to any person under 40 years of age without first performing age verification through enhanced controls that utilize scanning technology or other automated, software-based system to verify that the person is 18 years of age or older.

A person who violates this subsection is liable for a civil penalty of $100 for each offense.

Read the full text of the bill (warning – confusing!)

What That Means

The new law means that all tobacco sales must be preceded by digital ID scanning. The language is similar, but less restrictive, than the Nevada Cannabis Control Board’s language around ID scanning for cannabis purchase.

“Enhanced controls that utilize scanning technology” at minimum means that an ID scanner must be used to read the 2D barcode (PDF417) on the back of the ID. The 2D barcode contains information such as first name, last name, and date of birth. The “automated, software-based system” then compares the date of birth to today’s date to determine the age of the ID holder, and whether they are 18 and able to purchase tobacco products. Age verification software can also determine if the ID is expired.

Who Does AB360 Apply To?

The AB360 law will apply to any business selling tobacco products. This includes liquor stores and vape shops, but also bars and restaurants which have cigarettes behind the bar, grocery stores, delivery services, and events venues. Every tobacco retailer must comply and perform digital ID scanning.

Catching Fake IDs

Where the law is less clear is whether or not retailers selling tobacco must perform ID authentication or do any reasonable detections for fake IDs before selling tobacco. Although there are many scanners available that can perform basic age verification and catch some fake IDs, free ID scanning apps do not catch the majority of fakes. So if the intent is for tobacco retailers to truly verify identity and age before purchase, they will need special authentication hardware.

Which ID Scanners Are Compliant?

The easiest way to comply with AB360 is to use an all-in-one visitor management system on a mobile device. This tool will instantly scan IDs, verify age, and alert you if the ID is expired. A few solutions we recommend:

Panasonic FZN1 with VeriScan Online

IDWare 9000

If you are looking to catch fake IDs, or verify age more thoroughly, then we recommend an authentication device such as the E-Seek M500 ID Scanner, paired with authentication software.

Our Team can help! We’ve already helped dozens of businesses prepare for AB360. Contact us at hello@idscan.net, or (504) 434-0222 to get a personalized recommendation. Or fill out our Quote Request Form.

back of driver's license

The Anatomy of a Driver’s License

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Driver’s licenses contain a plethora of information on a 2 ⅛ x 3 ⅜ card. But what does it all mean? Here’s a breakdown of everything included on the back of your ID and how it’s used to verify your identity. 

  1. PDF417 barcode: This is used for storing personal information, including name, gender, date of birth, height, and weight. “PDF” stands for Portable Data File and the “417” signifies that each pattern in the code consists of 4 bars and spaces in a pattern that is 17 units long.
  2. Microprint background: The microprint background is a high-end authentication feature. It refers to the use of microscopic patterns on a document or ID card that cannot be reproduced through conventional photocopying devices. Microprint is typically not visible to the naked eye and requires magnification to verify.
  3. Photo ID mirrored image: The photo ID mirrored image is used as a reference with face matching authentication. Facial matching technology can create a face template from a webcam, from their ID photo, from another photo, or from a selfie camera. Next time you see the face, the image will be matched against the template you have saved.
  4. Organ donor symbol: The organ donor symbol is cross-referenced with the information in the PDF417 barcode and on the front of the ID. The red heart is a legally binding consent to be an organ and eye donor.
  5. State seal: The state seal is used for ID series detection. Often, state seals are holograms that are used for high-level authentication.
  6. Magnetic stripe: The magnetic stripe contains information on the front of the license, such as name, date of birth, and address. It is used for front and back matching.
  7. 1D barcode: The 1D barcode contains the state code and ID number. The state code is a two digit number.
  8. DOB and issue date: The date of birth (DOB) and issue date are compared to information on the front of the ID.
  9. Class/restrictions/endorsements: This information is compared to information on the front of ID. Class D is a regular operator.

While every state’s driver’s license varies slightly, this diagram gives a good overview of the elements likely included on your ID. Read more about ID verification and authentication here or contact us for information on our ID scanning solutions.

web3 computers

Web3 and Identity Verification

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What is Web3?

Characterized by online sharing, social media platforms, and content creation, web 2.0 has defined the last two decades. It gave rise to what we call digital identity, and as we surfed the net we left digital footprints, chock full of valuable data which was owned by powerful third parties. When it came to identity verification, intermediaries, such as banks, authenticated the legitimacy of consumers.  

Enter Web3, the latest iteration of the internet,  the hallmark of which is a decentralization that allows users–rather than corporations– to control their own data and identity.

Before proceeding, it’s important to understand two concepts: the metaverse and self-sovereign identity (SSI)

The Metaverse

Inherent to web3 is the concept of the metaverse. A clear definition is hard to come by, but it is generally understood to be a virtual-reality experience built on the principles of decentralization that gives consumers direct access to whatever they want. In the metaverse, people can interact with friends, buy and trade digital assets, and more. The game Fortnite is an example of a metaverse

Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI)

Another concept central to web3 is self-sovereign identity. Currently, digital IDs require that you register at a service with a username/email address and a password, or that you use a third party login service like “Login with Facebook/Google.” Consumers currently own, on average, up to 200 accounts, with passwords, tied to the same email address. 

Conversely, self-sovereign identity is an identity you own. It represents a paradigm shift in identity verification away from third parties. Self-sovereign identity relies on blockchain technology, which is a record of encrypted, time-stamped series of data that is unchangeable and managed by a network of computers rather than a single, centralized system.

Identity Authentication in Web3

In the future, a likely identity verification scenario is this: Passwords will be a thing of the past, and authentication  techniques will rely on blockchain technology-enabled digital wallets to admit users–or their avatars– into a virtual experience. Consumers will have control over what data they share and will be able to prove their identity without revealing the data itself. That data will be owned by them rather than intermediaries. 

Web3 is still an emerging concept, so there’s much we don’t know about how it will affect ID authentication. But the list of industries leveraging SSI is growing daily, so it’s important to understand both its implications and how to adapt your business to the evolving infrastructure. 

For information on IDScan.net’s identity verification solutions, contact us.

airport

ID Scanning and Smart Airports

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From checking bags to boarding the plane, tech-driven id scanning solutions are transforming the airline industry. But in the rush to create frictionless travel experiences, are some airlines missing the goalpost? 

Smart Airports

Airports today are in a race to provide a seamless, touch-free passenger experience.  Some airports are already employing end-to-end identity verification solutions that simplify the juggernauts surrounding luggage checking, security checks, and boarding the airplane. In Spain, two airports, Valencia (VLC) and Bilbao (BIO), have installed more than 45 automatic border control gates that use facial recognition and automatic document verification.  Los Angeles (LAX) announced in January that 100% of their security checkpoints are using touchless ID scanners. The Dubai airport features Smart Gates, which customers can pass through by simply looking at a green light.

Baggage Check Headaches

Spirit Airlines has entered the smart airport fray and is now using ID scanning technology to check luggage. The process is simple. Passengers must opt-in to the automated system. They will be asked to scan a photo ID, and the hardware then uses facial recognition to match the passenger to the ID and that person’s flight reservation. Once the match is successful, the passenger can drop their bags off.

The airline currently processes approximately 2,700 bags a day at busy airports such as LAX, so it’s critical that their identity verification software is up to the task. But experiences at the airline kiosks prove otherwise, with smart kiosks failing to scan IDs effectively, requiring airport personnel to swipe their badges to complete the process. 

Why aren’t the ID scanners working? Because there’s more than one way to scan an ID, and choosing the optimal method is paramount. 

OCR vs 2D Barcode Scanning

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a technology that converts an image of text into a machine readable text format. But it has limitations, and was not intended to extract data from a document with small fields and dark type against security features, such as holograms, watermarks, and microprint.  Additionally, it was originally intended to be used with a flatbed scanner. While OCR can extract data from a driver’s license or passport, it isn’t optimal. In the best conditions, OCR accuracy levels are within 79% to 89%. For these reasons, the best identity verification solutions don’t rely on OCR alone.

A 2D barcode, on the other hand, uses symbologies–patterns, shapes, and dots–to encrypt information. Symbologies are very useful for important documents, such as driver’s licenses, passports, and boarding passes. Having all of the information in a symbology allows for an extra security measure to ensure that the information on a document is the same as in the data format. They can store up to 4,000 characters or 7,000 digits. 

The symbol systems in a 2D barcode can be read with a camera and a scanner. 2D barcode scanning software has a 99% accuracy and scanning rate.  

By using OCR software rather than 2D barcode scanning software, Spirit Airlines has derailed their efforts to eliminate a traveler touchpoint. 

Denis Petrov, CEO of IDScan.net, a leading developer of AI powered identity verification technology,  observed, “The design of the dataflow of the Self Bag Drop kiosk is clearly flawed, because it requires that customers scan the FRONT of the ID versus the BACK of the ID, which is the most reliable way of capturing and verifying customer information via PDF417 2D barcode.”

The ID Scanning Software Solution

“IDScan.net has pioneered dependable and innovative technology that scans both sides of an ID then compares it with the person in front of the kiosk, verifying not just their identity but also other factors, such as age,” Petrov says, “As an extra layer of validation, the technology can also perform third-party checks.”  Third-party checks validate details about an individual using services such as DMV data verification, IdentiFraud, criminal background checks and even watch lists.  

IDScan.net has created customized ID scanner solutions for more than 6,500 of the world’s most trusted brands across all industries. 

For more information on solutions utilizing 2D barcode scanning, contact us.

online gambling

Top Five Responsible Online Gaming Tools

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The size of the global online gambling and betting industry amounted to 61.5 billion dollars in 2021, and has been forecast to increase by 86% by 2028. At the same time, a total of 16.4% of Internet gamblers were classified as either moderate or problem gamblers.  But when the casino is on your phone or in your home, it’s hard to take a break from the action, and it’s easy to lose track of time and money. 

However, the onus shouldn’t be only on the player to walk away from the game. 

Responsible Online Gaming

Responsible gaming programs are an essential part of business practices in the U.S. gaming industry.  As a condition of licensing, states may mandate both land-based and online gaming operators submit for approval a plan for addressing responsible gaming issues.

How are online operators encouraging responsible gaming? They’re offering a set of tools and safeguards built into the gambling software.  

Here are five of the most popular responsible gaming tools. And while any one tactic on its own may not be effective, using a combination of these tools can help gamblers keep the amount of time and money spent logged on to online gaming sites reasonable rather than problematic.

  1. Deposit limits: Setting deposit limits either internally, or having players set them externally, limits the amount of money deposited on a site on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. This tool can be extremely valuable due to the fact that problem gamblers are physically not allowed to spend more than a certain amount of money per set period of time. 
  1. Time limits: Time limits control the amount of time a gambler can spend on a site. Again, this is a useful tool because it forces those with less impulse control to log off after a certain period of time instead of spending more time and money.
  1. Loss limits: Once a player loses a certain amount of money, they will be logged out of the site and unable to log back on for a predetermined amount of time. This is especially useful for those that like to go double or nothing to win back their lost money. Once they’ve lost a certain amount, they will be forcibly removed from the platform.
  1. Time outs: Time outs can be set to enforce a certain amount of time away from the tables after a particular threshold has been reached, such as losing a hand.  This is a useful tactic for those with a short temper or impulsive nature. By forcing a time out, it allows the player to take a step back, cool off, and assess the situation before proceeding.
  1. Universal Self-Exclusion Lists: Self-exclusion lists allow a person to request to be excluded from legalized gaming activities. Individuals who enroll in self-exclusion are prohibited from collecting any winnings, recovering any losses, or accepting anything of value from a gambling operator. 

Additionally, licensees are discouraged from targeting the self-excluded individual with any marketing messages. Though self-exclusion lists are not legally binding and enforcement is uneven in states that allow online gambling, an operator may expel a player if they are found gambling in violation of the self-exclusion program. 

There are remote identity verification solutions available that can help online gaming operators stay in compliance by ensuring that those on self-exclusion lists are barred from gambling on their sites. For more information, contact IDScan.net to discuss a solution tailor made for the gaming industry.

Do I Need a Driver’s License to Buy a Car?

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There is nothing stopping you from legally buying a car without a driver’s license, though not having one may complicate the process of getting insurance, registering the car,  and obtaining financing. Additionally, certain tasks, which can now be completed online, will have to be taken care of in person. 

While unusual, there are several scenarios in which a person without a driver’s license may want to buy a car. These include:

  • Buying a vehicle as a gift
  • Buying a fleet vehicle for a business
  • Buying a vehicle for caregiver use
  • Buying a vehicle for a minor with a driver’s license
  • Buying a car for a collection
  • Bing a car for a driver to operate

Insurance challenges

One of the biggest hurdles to owning a car without a driver’s license is getting insurance. Typically, insurance companies require a driver’s license number in order for them to check driving history, and most states require that cars are insured. However, insurance companies will accept the driver’s license information of whoever will be the primary driver of the vehicle, and you will be listed on the policy as an excluded driver. Even though you’re paying the premium, its cost will be calculated based on the primary driver. 

Registering the car

In order to register your car, you must present a driver’s license and proof of insurance to the DMV. Because you will not be able to do either, you’ll need to share ownership of the car with another person. The driver of the vehicle will be named the titleholder. 

Financing woes

Obtaining financing without a driver’s license is difficult, with many dealerships refusing to finance a car without a license. They know that because of registration requirements, you’ll only have partial ownership of the vehicle. While you can apply for a loan from a third party source, they will normally require that you have insurance coverage first. Of course, you’ll need to provide a government ID and income statement. They may also request proof that your driver’s license was not suspended or revoked. 

The entire car-buying process favors those with driver’s licenses, so while it is possible and legal to buy a car without a license, there will be obstacles to overcome, such as getting insurance, financing, and registering the car.  

Learn about IDScan.net’s ID scanning solutions for the automotive industry.

Different strains of cannabis on display at a dispensary

Illinois Cannabis Dispensary-ID Scanning & PII Retention Laws

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There are 110 dispensaries across the state of Illinois. In 2021, sales reached $1.38 billion, doubling the total from 2020.   With 185 new recreational dispensary licenses recently approved, sales will likely continue to grow. 

ID Scanning at Illinois Dispensaries

Illinois is one of three states leading the charge on officially mandating digital scanning for cannabis purchase, after Nevada and New Jersey.  Digital scanning removes risk of error, ensures compliance with state laws, stops previously banned patrons from entering the premises, and can track daily maximums. Use of an ID scanner also enhances customer experience by reducing wait times. 

 The Illinois statute reads as follows: 

“A dispensing organization shall use an electronic reader or electronic scanning device to scan a purchaser’s government-issued identification, if applicable, to determine the purchaser’s age and the validity of the identification.”

This statute was part of legislation reaffirmed in 2021.

Additionally, IDs must be scanned to determine purchase limits, which are based on Illinois residency. The purchases limits are as follows:

  • The possession limit for Illinois residents is 30 grams of cannabis flower; 5 grams  of cannabis concentrate; and no more than 500 milligrams of THC contained in a cannabis-infused product. 
  • For non-Illinois residents, the limit is 15 grams of cannabis flower; 2.5 grams of cannabis concentrate; and no more than 250 milligrams of the THC contained in a cannabis-infused product.

Use & Storage of PII

The use of information obtained from a driver’s license is regulated in the state. Illinois has one of the most stringent PII retention requirements in the nation and requires that PII immediately be flushed post scan. 

Though Illinois requires that PII be deleted after scanning, because the primary function of scanning is fraud detection, information obtained from scanning can be used to approve credit applications, check acceptance, and refunds. 

Key Facts To Know

  • IDs must be scanned digitally to determine the purchaser’s age and validity of the identification.
  • IDs must be scanned to determine purchase limits because limits differ for in-state and out-of-state residents.
  • Information parsed from an ID may not be retained unless the individual gives express permission for use.
  • Violations of the statute may result in the recovery of damages, plus attorney’s fees and the costs of bringing action.
  • Any person convicted of a violation of the above statute will be guilty of a Class 4 felony. 

Liabilities & Fines

According to Illinois Law, as long as an ID was scanned and determined to be legitimate, neither the dispensary nor the budtender is legally responsible for underage sales. Instead, the individual who presented the fraudulent ID would be subject to a misdemeanor.

Ideal Solutions

IDScan.net is the only ID scanning solution which can scan IDs to determine age and purchase limits and immediately flush data. VeriScan Online with an M500 for authentication is an ideal solution for Illinois dispensaries. 
Contact us at hello@idscan.net for assistance selecting the right solution for your business.

Digital Driver’s Licenses: There’s an App for That!

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There are few things worse than leaving your house without your wallet. With more than 30 states taking steps to implement digital driver’s licenses (mDDs) accessible from your smartphone, the hassle of forgetting your license will soon be a thing of the past. But In order to verify and store your identity digitally, you must have an app on your smartphone.  

While some apps are state-sponsored, others rely on Apple iOS’s built-in Wallet app. 

Apple Wallet/Apple watch 

Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Utah, and New York use Apple Wallet to store their mDDs.

To use the Apple Wallet app, you need an iPhone 8 or newer, and an Apple Watch Series 4 or newer. You must also have the latest iOS versions downloaded for both your phone and your watch, two-factor authentication must be on, and you must be signed in with your Apple ID with your location set. 

During the setup process, you will be prompted to follow these steps:

  1. Scan you physical driver’s license or state ID card
  2. Take a selfie
  3. Complete a series of facial and head movements

After you’ve downloaded the app and set up your account, the issuing state will verify the ID. Once the ID has been verified, it will be added to your Apple Wallet.

State-sponsored apps

Several states offer their own apps to store your digital ID.  

Arizona, Delaware, Oklahoma, and Mississippi use the same app, MiD.

To install MiD for these states:

  1. Download and launch the app from the Apple app store or Google Play.
  2. Register your phone number.
  3. Scan your ID.
  4. Take a selfie.
  5. Set up security, and you’re good to go!

Louisiana and Colorado have developed their own apps. The process for setting-up your mDD differs depending on the state.

  • Louisiana: Download the LA Wallet app from google play or apple. 
    • Sign in or create an account. S
    • Select “Add License” 
    • Enter your license information and select “Add License” again.
    • The state auto-populates a photo of the front and back of your driver’s license
    • Vaccine cards can also be stored in the LA Wallet app
  • Colorado: myColorado is the state of Colorado’s official mobile app. It is currently not compatible with other electronic wallets, including but not limited to Apple, Google, and Samsung. 
    • Download the myColorado app from the iPhone app store or Google Play Store.
    • Create an account and give myColorado access to your camera. 
    • Scan the back of your Colorado driver license or state ID. 
    • Create a username and password. 
    • Enable Touch/Face ID to log in quickly. 
    • Tap Login and enter your username and password.  Allow notifications to stay up-to-date. 
    • To create your Colorado Digital ID, tap CO Digital ID.

While it’s still too early to leave your physical ID at home, the trend toward mDDs is ramping up, along with all things digital and remote. Preparing for the inevitability of mDDs is critical and includes the ability to scan any state ID, digital or physical. Contact one of our experts to ensure your business is ready for the wave of mobile IDs.

Cannabis in a jar

Michigan Cannabis Laws – ID Scanning and Retention of PII

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Though medicinal and adult-use recreational cannabis has been legal in Michigan since November 2018, they have yet to enact any legislation requiring the use of scanning IDs for entrance into either recreational retail establishments or medical dispensaries. 

Additionally, if an establishment does scan an ID, Michigan law does not regulate that business’s ability to retain personal information obtained from a scan. This makes Michigan an ideal state to build a fully integrated scanning system that syncs with your point-of-sale system. 

Here’s what you need to know:

  • A Michigan statute prohibits one that is not a party to a transaction from electronically capturing, recording, distribution, disseminating, or transmitting personal information from the transaction without the consent of the individual. 
  • The provision does not prohibit the capture or transmission of personal identifying information (PII) in the ordinary and lawful course of business.
  • Retail establishments must ask for a photo id to prove the ages of their customers.
  • Though not required, many retail establishments are scanning IDs.
  • The only information shared with the government is when the purchase was made, the weight of the cannabis, price, and product.

In 2021, medical and recreational sales of cannabis eclipsed that of Colorado, with a $171 million monthly sales record set in July.

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