What is IDVT and how can I use it?

01 Jul 2024

01 Jul 2024 by Luke Puplett - Founder

IDVT (Identity Document Validation Technology) is technology that checks ID documents and matches them to the person. It's used in the UK and other countries to make hiring faster and more secure.

Here's how it actually works.

What is IDVT?

IDVT covers any technology that checks ID documents and biometrics, which may include technology in airports, but more practically means apps and websites using tech available on our mobile phones and personal devices.

For people hiring or taking on a new client, IDVT is a system that uses an app or website to check if a person is who they say they are. Here's what it does:

• Takes photos of ID documents (like passports)

• Takes a selfie of the person

• Checks if the ID is real

• Makes sure the selfie is of a real, live person

• Compares the selfie to the photo on the ID

How IDVT Works in Practice

For the person being checked:

• They get a link to an app or website

• The app guides them to take clear photos of their ID

• Then it asks for a selfie, sometimes asking them to turn their head or blink

• The whole process usually takes just a few minutes

For the employer or checker:

• They get a detailed report about the person and their ID

• The report says if the ID is real and if the person matches it

• It recommends whether to pass or fail the check

• All of this happens quickly, often in just a few minutes

The Tech Behind IDVT

IDVT uses complex algorithms to:

• Spot fake or altered IDs

• Check that the selfie is of a real person who's actually there (this is called "liveness detection")

• Compare facial features in the selfie and ID photo

Experts in detecting fraud create these systems, and authorities like NIST in the US approve them.

Using IDVT for Hiring

In some countries, employers are allowed to use IDVT to check if new hires can legally work. It's especially useful for:

• Remote hiring

• Checking passports and official ID

• Speeding up the hiring process

The business using IDVT must trust that the technology works well and the operator is providing robust checks. In the UK, these companies are known as IDSPs and the government publish a list of approved IDSPs.

In the UK, it is not mandatory to use an approved IDSP so long as the business is comfortable with their chosen services provider, however most companies would prefer the reassurance of using one that the government lists.

For Right to Work checks in the UK, the legal responsibility rests with the business to have performed checks and kept records for audit and compliance.

Beyond Hiring: Other Uses

IDVT isn't just for jobs. It's also used for:

• Banks checking new customers

• Companies verifying business partners

• Any situation where you need to prove who you are online

Getting Started

• Be sure that the service provider you choose is using proven technology.

• Consider other checks that you may have to do and whether you'll need to orchestrate a set of tools or apps and bring the information together.

• Make sure to keep records. These must be tamper proof such that if audited, it is beyond doubt that you have altered any evidence.

• Have a process in place to check some people's ID again after some time, e.g. checking changes in immigration or visa status.

• Have a process for deleting retained data in compliance with local data laws.

Zipwire Collect can collect and retain documents as well as manually-entered information, and keeps all records of activity. It is integrated with Yoti, the first approved IDSP in the UK and uses technology certified by NIST.

The great thing about using something like Zipwire Collect is that the solution is all-in-one. There is usually other information to collect from people, in addition to ID documents or immigration docs. This provides more trust that the other documents and information are being sent by the expected person.

Since Zipwire is simply a mobile-friendly website, it is great for small business owners who's office is their van, mobile salon or workshop.

You may also be interested in our Complete Guide to Conducting Compliant Right to Work Checks in the UK.

Wrap-Up

IDVT makes checking IDs faster, easier, and more secure. It's changing how we prove who we are online, whether for a new job, a bank account, or a business deal.

Remember, while IDVT is powerful, it's best used alongside other checks. Always make sure you're following the latest rules in your area.

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