How to check if an ID is fake- Checking whether an ID is fake at a licensed premises, such as a bar or nightclub, is crucial to ensure compliance with legal regulations, particularly when verifying a person’s age for alcohol sales. Licensing Professionals have summarised steps you should follow to verify the authenticity of an ID:
1. Look at the Basic Features
Examine the Holograms: Most IDs (driver’s licenses, passports) have holographic images that are difficult to replicate. Tilt the ID to see if the hologram appears.
Check the Texture: A real ID typically has a sturdy, high-quality plastic or card feel. Fake IDs may feel flimsy or the printing might be of poor quality.
Font Consistency: Look at the fonts on the ID. Genuine IDs have consistent fonts throughout. Fake IDs often have mismatched fonts or spacing errors.
Raised Surfaces: Some IDs, like driver’s licenses, may have raised text or images. Run your finger over the ID to feel for these details.
2. Verify the Photo
Compare the Photo to the Person: Ensure that the person’s face closely matches the photo on the ID. Look for significant differences in facial features.
Check for Age Differences: If the person in the ID looks significantly younger than they appear in person, this could be a sign that the ID is outdated or not theirs.
3. Inspect the ID for Alterations
Look for Tampering: Check for signs of tampering around the photo or any other part of the ID, such as peeling, bubbling, or re-laminating.
Check for Inconsistencies: Look for mismatched information. For example, does the size or style of text on the birth date look different from the rest of the ID?
4. Validate Security Features
Microprint: Real IDs often have microprinting, which is tiny text that is difficult to reproduce. Use a magnifying glass to check for microprinting around the edges or in other areas.
Ultraviolet Features: Some IDs have invisible features that can only be seen under a UV (black) light. Many establishments use these lights to verify IDs by checking for security features that fluoresce under UV lighting.
5. Cross-check with ID Reference Guides
Use an ID Checking Guide: An ID reference guide provides examples of IDs from various states, countries, or regions. Use it to cross-check details such as layout, security features, and colors.
Mobile Apps and Scanners: Some businesses use mobile apps or ID scanning machines that read the barcode on the back of the ID to confirm its validity. The scanner will also check for discrepancies between the barcode information and the printed details.
6. Check the Expiration Date
Expired ID: If an ID is expired, it is not valid, even if it was once legitimate. Always check the expiration date to ensure it’s current.
7. Ask Questions
Ask for Additional Information: If you’re suspicious, you can ask the person to confirm details from the ID, such as their full name, date of birth, or address. Watch for hesitation or inconsistent answers.
Request a Second Form of ID: In some cases, asking for another form of ID (such as a credit card or school ID) can help verify the person's identity.
8. Compare ID to Known Fakes
Look for Known Fake Features: Some common signs of a fake ID include:
Inconsistent fonts or blurry printing.
Poor alignment of text or borders.
Lack of specific details like watermarks or holograms.
Altered birth dates or photos.
9. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off about the ID or the person’s behavior, it’s often a sign that the ID may be fake. It’s better to be cautious and refuse entry or service if you have doubts about the legitimacy of the ID.
10. Legal and Licensing Requirements
Training Staff: Ensure that your staff are trained on how to properly check IDs and are familiar with the legal requirements for ID verification.
Document Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a suspicious or fake ID, make a note of it and, if necessary, report it to local authorities. You may also want to keep a record for future reference.
Types of Acceptable IDs (depending on jurisdiction):
Driver's license
Passport
Government-issued ID cards
Military ID
Age cards (where applicable)
How to check if an ID is fake- Summary
It’s essential to stay updated on what types of IDs are accepted at your licensed premises and familiarize yourself with the security features of legitimate IDs.
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