Do Fake IDs Scanning? An Enhanced View of ID Scanning
The majority of online ID scanners are designed to read information encoded in a driver’s license or other government-issued ID’s magnetic stripe or barcode. These scanners perform a scan to check the validity and format of the data. However, it’s important to note that relying solely on barcodes for security is not a reliable approach. Barcodes are primarily used to capture data quickly from a card but are not foolproof in ensuring the authenticity of the document.
Counterfeiters can easily obtain the necessary tools and encoding techniques to forge barcode data, making it relatively simple for them to create scannable false identification documents. In fact, most counterfeit IDs offered online will pass a basic scan.
To effectively detect fake identification cards, high-quality scanners go beyond simply scanning barcodes. Sophisticated scanners use advanced techniques like pixel-level processing to analyze and compare various elements of the fake ids that scan, such as typefaces, images, and letter spacing, against genuine ID templates. This process, known as pattern matching, helps identify inconsistencies that counterfeiters may have overlooked.
To address other security aspects, particularly holograms and UV features, white light is often used for testing. Holograms and fluorescent overlays serve as additional layers of security, and shining white light or exposing the ID to UV light can help verify their authenticity. Modern counterfeiters may attempt to replicate these security features closely or even use genuine versions from valid IDs to pass these tests.
While lighting checks and pattern matching are valuable tools in identifying fake IDs, it’s crucial to understand that the effectiveness of these tests depends on the quality of the counterfeit ID and the complexity of the ID scanner being used. Relying solely on these tests can lead to false positives, so a comprehensive approach that combines various security measures is essential to combat ID fraud effectively.
