Will Fake IDs Pass ID Scanners? (2024)

Fake ID vendors often advertise their counterfeits as “scannable.” So it’s reasonable to ask, whether or not a fake ID will realistically be caught by an ID scanner.

To answer this, you'll need to understand understand the technology used by different ID scanners and the tools available to forgers to circumnavigate automated tests.

The most popular of these tests verifies the barcode or magnetic strip on an ID.

Barcodes are for Data Collection

Most ID scanners verify an ID by reading the information on the barcode, or magnetic strip, and checking to see if the data is returned in the correct format.

Unfortunately, these features are primarily used as a means to allow ID scanners to quickly extract information from an ID and aren’t designed as strong security features.

Fabricating barcodes and magnetic strips with properly encoded identity information is fairly simple with the required technologies, and encoding schemes, readily available on the internet.

While it’s possible to catch fake IDs using simple ID scanners, it’s uncommon for forgers to craft IDs with faulty barcodes or magnetic strips. Counterfeit IDs sold through the most popular online platforms will all return as valid when scanned.

The majority of ID scanners used today rely solely on these tests alone, most fake IDs in circulation are passing as true when scanned.

To effectively catch fakes IDs, you need technology to analyze the face of the ID to identify the slight discrepancies in the more sophisticated security features built into government-issued IDs.

By comparing the imagery, fonts and spacing of scanned IDs against a real ID template using pixel-level processing, an ID scanner can accurately detect fake IDs. Few are able to achieve this

This type of analysis is referred to as pattern matching.

How do ID Scanners Effectively Catch Fake IDs?

Issuers of official identity documents use intricate designs and proprietary fonts as key security features when creating IDs to make them virtually impossible to duplicate perfectly.

The fine lines, unique typefaces, microtext and complex imagery found on an ID require securely-held technologies to reproduce which aren’t readily available to illegitimate print shops.

When these details are poorly faked, they are easily caught by the trained eye. But more advanced fake IDs will pass most human verifications and can only be caught by analyzing the ID in such granularity that often only a handful of pixels provide tell-tale signs of a fake.

It’s why Patronscan relies on its proprietary pattern-matching technology to micro analyze 4,500 different IDs to accurately verify IDs. Pattern-matching is the most common way fake IDs fail to pass our ID scanners.

With access to these near-perfect fake IDs becoming easier than ever on the dark web, counterfeit identity documents are fueling persistent yearly increases in identity fraud losses among businesses worldwide.

Holograms and fluorescent overlays are another layer of security that allow ID scanners to conduct a third test: how an ID's reflective qualities behave under different lighting conditions.

Validating Holograms and Fluorescent Overlays

Holograms and fluorescent overlays are used as an added layer of security that can be tested by shining white light on the ID or placing it under UV light.

As these security features are easily verified with low-tech solutions, the modern counterfeiter will copy these features as closely as possible. Forgers either try to reproduce these security features or port over authentic versions from real IDs to trick these tests.

Whether or not a fake ID will pass an ID scanner’s lighting test depends on the quality of the fake ID and the sophistication of the ID scanner. Patronscan uses custom lighting and hardware sensors that analyze the reflections of an ID to assist in determining authenticity.

Holograms and florescent overlays are replicated by more sophisticated fake IDs, so relying on these tests alone can provide a false sense of security.

It's All in the Scanning Engine

Fake IDs will still pass ID scanners conducting all three tests if the

scanning engine isn’t strong enough. The scanning engine is the software that processes the information collected by a scan to validate the ID.

A reliable scanning engine takes time to build, is constantly updated and uses millions of scans to build algorithms that accurately fake ID detection. Without a proper scanning engine, false positives are constant and newer versions of fake IDs will end up passing these tests.

Will a Fake ID be Detected by an ID scanner?

To catch fake IDs with an ID scanner, you need the right set of ingredients. Reliable tests take a look at the smallest details on an ID to check for accuracy.

Pattern-matching and a strong scanning engine, are the most important components for verifying IDs. Even ID scanners with the right hardware mix often fail to keep their libraries updated, leading to reliability issues, false positives and unreadable IDs.

Taking all the above into consideration, will a fake ID scan?

For most ID scanners, the unfortunate answer is: yes. With Patronscan's proprietary scanning technology? Unlikely.

If you need accurate fake ID detection for your business, book a demo today and see why Patronscan is the trusted choice in ID verification.

Will Fake IDs Pass ID Scanners? (2024)

FAQs

Will Fake IDs Pass ID Scanners? ›

Counterfeit IDs sold through the most popular online platforms will all return as valid when scanned. The majority of ID scanners used today rely solely on these tests alone, most fake IDs in circulation are passing as true when scanned.

What happens when a cop scans a fake ID? ›

If you give a police officer a fake identification card that appears to have been issued by a state or federal agency, he will run the information on that card for wants and warrants, using the name, date of birth, and other descriptors on the card.

What does it show when an ID is scanned? ›

Essentially, these scanners see what we see with our eyes, name, address, and birthdate. But it's in a different way, through a machine by reading the barcode. These machines are common and are mainly to catch fakes, to make sure you are who you say you are.

Is it easy to detect fake ID? ›

A fake ID is often of lower quality and may have printing errors, incorrect font, or blurry images. A real ID is high quality and has clear accurate information and pictures. Security features. A fake ID may lack security features such as holograms and watermarks that are present in real IDs to prevent counterfeiting.

Can TSA detect fake IDs? ›

ID is checked multiple times in most airports, including at the entry to boarding. Every one of the people who check that ID is well-trained in detecting fraudulent documents (I trained some myself, in another country a while ago).

Do cops care about fake IDs? ›

If state law does not allow these workers to confiscate fake IDs, they might still call the cops on you. Another important reminder: Undercover cops like to patrol around bars and areas that high school and college students like to go to. Police will most likely arrest you if you lie about a fake ID directly to them.

What pops up when you scan a fake ID? ›

If fake IDs scan, which most modern, sophisticated fakes do, the following information will be available, and may be displayed when the fake ID is scanned: First Name. Last Name. Date of Birth (most ID scanning software will use this to calculate your age)

Are ID scanning apps accurate? ›

Most ID scanning and age verification software does not catch any fraudulent IDs based on the barcode. If they can scan the barcode, and the barcode says the customer is of-age, they give a digital thumbs up.

Will an expired ID scan at a bar? ›

A Texas bar patron can use an expired ID, according to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. However, New York law prohibits the purchase of alcohol with an expired ID. Other states like California and Washington require IDs to be valid (not expired) to purchase alcohol.

Do all IDs have a magnetic strip? ›

Many states have recently begun issuing licenses with 2D bar codes. In some states they are adding a 2D bar code to a license which has a magnetic stripe and in others states the license did not have a magnetic stripe.

What is the best ID scanner app? ›

That's why the Vemos - ID Scan app is the fastest ID scanner on the market. Use the camera of your iPhone, iPod or iPad to scan US driver's license IDs, military IDs, and international passports. You can also use a hardware attachment to scan IDs at an even faster rate.

How do I know if my ID is black light? ›

Black lights often highlight where the individual tampered with the ID, and they always reveal any chalking or other technique that removed the original name or birth date from the ID. Black lights can reveal additional glue or other marks resulting from a seal that the individual removed or replaced.

Is it identity theft to use a fake ID? ›

Is it identity theft? Using fake identification is a crime, but typically it is not considered identity theft. While both crimes may involve using someone else's ID, identity theft typically has additional elements, such as: Intent to obtain money.

Is it safe to fly with a fake ID? ›

Should I keep my fake ID in my checked bag or carry on? Doesn't matter. As Marshall said, as long as you don't present it to the TSA agent at the checkpoint, they'll never know or care that you have it.

How do airports verify your identity? ›

The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

How does TSA verify your identity? ›

First generation CAT units are designed to scan a traveler's photo identification, confirm the traveler's identity as well as their flight details. The new CAT units, referred to as CAT-2, have the same capabilities, but are also equipped with a camera that captures a real-time photo of the traveler.

Can a cashier take your fake ID? ›

California: A licensee or his employee may seize any identification from a person that shows to be under 21 or false, so long as a receipt is given to the person from whom it was seized and the seized identification is given over to the local law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the premises within 24 ...

What states is it a felony to have a fake ID? ›

In states like Florida and Illinois, you can get arrested and charged with a felony. In Illinois, being charged with possession of a fake ID is a class 4 felony.

Do bouncers turn in fake IDs? ›

The bouncer can take the fake ID long enough to call the police, since the person is committing a crime and it can be reported. The police would then decide what to do with it.

How do they scan ids at clubs? ›

Authenticating The Drivers' License
  1. White light scanning.
  2. UV light scanning.
  3. Infrared light scanning.
  4. 6-image comparison.
  5. Front/back matching (camera uses OCR to compare the text on the front of the ID to the information in the 2D barcode)
  6. Hologram checks.
  7. Watermark checks.

Do fake IDs work in Vegas? ›

In the state of Nevada, it is against the law for a person to possess or sell a false ID whether their purpose is to purchase alcohol, or to gamble when they're underage, or to write checks or open a bank account, or for any other fraudulent purpose.

Can you scan ID with phone? ›

Mobile ID Scanning is Accurate & Secure

This includes driver's licenses, passports, visas, and even tickets or event passes. More importantly, the mobile ID card scanner reads and processes all the data with industry-leading accuracy thanks to our powerful Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology.

Do ID scanners check age? ›

An ID scanner is a device that scans and reads the data from a driver's license or another identification card. The scanner uses a camera to capture an image of the ID. After that, the software analyzes the data to verify the authenticity of the ID and the age of the individual.

What do ID scanners at bars do? ›

The scanner systems flag fake IDs and people who should not be allowed entry, and patrons are less likely to commit crimes. It's a great time for business owners to try these systems even if they are not required to do so.

What happens when an alcohol server serves alcohol to a minor after inspecting a fake ID and reasonably concluding it to be valid? ›

If a bartender or server ends up giving alcohol to a minor, then he will be equally liable for the offense. He may face the same legal consequences as that of the license owner. As a server, it is your responsibility to check the ID card for age and expiration status of the ID.

What is the black strip on ID card? ›

Magnetic stripe ID cards also known as magstripe ID cards are PVC ID cards containing a band of magnetic material embedded in the resin on the back of the card. Magnetic stripe ID cards store updatable information on a magstripe, which is read when the card is swiped through a magnetic stripe card reader.

Are fake IDs horizontal or vertical? ›

Pick up any state-published reference. Your state might have published a booklet or handout on authenticating their state I.D.s. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. For instance, in some states, an I.D. for a person under 21 will be vertical, while one for a person over 21 will be horizontal.

Do smart cards contain a chip instead of a magnetic strip? ›

EMV chip cards are much more secure than magnetic stripe cards. While magnetic chips retain static information, EMV chips store a digital code that changes with every purchase. This one-time digital signature is hard to copy and makes it much more difficult for fraudsters to steal data from a chip card.

Do ID scanners use facial recognition? ›

A facial recognition scanner is a biometric artificial intelligence device for matching human faces from a digital image typically used to authenticate users through ID verification. They work by pinpointing and measuring facial features from a given image.

How do I scan my ID clearly? ›

Tips for taking photos of your ID with a camera
  1. Do use a high resolution camera (8 megapixel or higher). ...
  2. Do use a solid, dark background.
  3. Do show the edges of the ID in the photo.
  4. Do take a clear photo without shadows, glares, reflections or blur.
  5. Do check that barcodes are not damaged or dirty.

Is there a ghost image on an ID? ›

Ghost Images are a basic level of card security. Essentially, a ghost image is a smaller version of the original photo image on an ID Card and is generally printed semi-translucent.

How do fake IDs work? ›

By using OCR (Optical Character Recognition), the software compares the picture and characters on the front of the ID to the information encoded in the back, and if those bits of information don't match up, the ID is almost always fake.

What does blue light do to an ID? ›

A small ultraviolet light or blue light and magnifying glass can be a helpful tool. The blue light will show hidden ID security features like holograms and ghost photos.

How do criminals make fake IDs? ›

Criminals will often use Credit Profile Numbers (CPN) to help create their fake identities, which they use to deceive creditors to borrow money and open accounts. These “phantom borrowers” will then become untraceable after committing the crime and disappearing.

Why is it bad to have a fake ID? ›

The possession of false identification is by itself a crime and if you use that fake ID to do something illegal, you can face additional charges and penalties. Using a legitimate ID that is not yours is also a crime, although in many states it may be a lesser crime.

Why is it bad to use a fake ID? ›

Even though it is common, it is still a serious offense. Young people pay no mind to the risk of carrying a fake ID. However, using a fake ID can send you to jail and lead to a permanent record. Bouncers checking IDs at the front doors of bars can turn all confiscated, suspicious IDs over to the police.

Can I fly if I left my ID at home? ›

In the event you arrive at the airport without proper ID, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. By providing additional information, TSA has other ways to confirm your identity, like using publicly available databases, so you can reach your flight.

Does Delta check ID for alcohol? ›

Delta doesn't ID for alcohol! : r/delta.

Can you use a fake on a cruise? ›

Yes. You buy everything onboard with your room key, unless you go to the casino. Drinks, movies, internet access, souvenirs, etc. They will only look at your room key.

Does airport security check everything? ›

Even passengers who normally receive expedited screening, such as TSA PreCheck™ passengers, may at times receive a pat-down. A pat-down may include inspection of the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet. This includes head coverings and sensitive areas such as breasts, groin, and the buttocks.

How does TSA verify identity without ID? ›

If you don't have any acceptable alternate form of ID, a TSA employee will ask you to complete an identity verification process by filling out a TSA Form 415, also known as a Certification of Identity form. It asks for your full name, current address, signature and date.

What does TSA look for in security? ›

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screeners at airports check passengers and personal items for dangerous items such as weapons, chemicals and liquids that are not allowed as carry-on items.

What will fail a TSA background check? ›

Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation, including identity fraud and money laundering, where the money laundering is related to a crime listed in Parts A or B (except welfare fraud and passing bad checks). Bribery. Smuggling. Immigration violations.

What does TSA see when they scan your bag? ›

The vast majority of them use electromagnetic waves to create an x-ray image of what is in your luggage. These scans can provide a 3D image to TSA agents that helps them to identify potential threats. It is important to realize that the scans only show the shapes of the items in the baggage.

How strict is the TSA background check? ›

A TSA background check is extremely rigorous and includes the following items: Fingerprinting and fingerprint processing to check against FBI criminal databases and FBI terrorist watch lists. Felony and misdemeanor criminal searches at the county, state, and federal level.

Should you put your real name on a fake ID? ›

No. A fake ID is an illegal item. Use a made-up name.

How strict is Nashville with fake IDs? ›

In Nashville, bars and other establishments like restaurants are required to check the identification of anyone who appears to be under the age of 30 to make sure they are of legal drinking age. Generally, bars will accept a paper ID if it looks genuine and includes a photograph.

Is having a fake ID a felony in New York? ›

What Are the Penalties for Having Fake ID in NY? Criminal possession of a fake ID is a violation of PL 170.25, criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree. This is a class D felony, punishable by up to 7 years in state prison.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Tyson Zemlak

Last Updated:

Views: 5231

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (43 voted)

Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Tyson Zemlak

Birthday: 1992-03-17

Address: Apt. 662 96191 Quigley Dam, Kubview, MA 42013

Phone: +441678032891

Job: Community-Services Orchestrator

Hobby: Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Metalworking, Fashion, Vehicle restoration, Shopping, Photography

Introduction: My name is Tyson Zemlak, I am a excited, light, sparkling, super, open, fair, magnificent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.