Fake IDs have been around for ages. Kids and young adults try to get their hands on these IDs to buy alcohol, get into clubs, or gain entry to events. Even though it’s illegal to create or use a fake id, people still use them, and it’s essential to learn how to spot them. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to spot a fake ID.
1. Look for inconsistencies
When you receive an ID, the first thing you should do is examine it. Look for inconsistencies, such as the spelling of the name, the birthdate, or the address. A fake ID will often have spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. The coloring and quality of the ID should also be uniform, and if you see any blotches or smudges, it’s likely a fake. It’s important to pay close attention to the photo on the ID, is it fitted properly or does it look a little off?
2. Check for fake State Seals.
The seal on the ID is also important when trying to spot a fake ID. Every state or government has their version of a seal that’s easily identifiable. Fake ID makers will often use seals that are poorly made or not uniform to genuine seals on a real ID. Therefore, it’s crucial to compare the ID seal with the seal on a real ID to identify any differences in the printing or coloration.
3. Observe the Holographic and Ultraviolet (UV) elements.
Many states and governments have included holographic and UV features to make the ID difficult to counterfeit. Therefore, observing these elements, such as unique holograms or UV patterns is one way of authenticating an ID. Fake IDs often have insufficient or no primary and secondary pictures, which are recognized by holographic overlays. Moreover, long-wave UV images reveal hidden drivers’ license information, making it harder to copy. Therefore, if you’re checking an ID, make sure to gauge the holographic and UV features to determine its authenticity.
4. Assess the Magnetic Strip.
In most states, a magnetic strip is located at the back of the ID to store or update information about the cardholder. Many real states have upgraded to more advanced systems to protect against fraud; however, fake IDs usually carry a magnetic stripe placed at the back, which is fake or redundant. Making sure the magnetic stripe works can be a challenge because professional counterfeiters can confuse you by adding false information to the stripe. Therefore, many places have a magnetic stripe reader machine to help identify whether the encoded information is accurate or not quickly.
5. Find out the backstory of the holder.
If you spot an ID that you’re unsure about, it’s essential to communicate with the person holding the ID without showing any disrespect. If the ID appears genuine, the individual should be able to provide valid and detailed information on the ID profile, such as name, place of birth, address, and any other necessary information about the ID. Additionally, some states have made it a legal obligation for ID ownership profile to match the holder’s documents. If you see something that doesn’t match or makes the individual see suspicious, it’s better to consult your superior or contact the regulatory police and report the incident promptly.
Fake IDs pose a significant threat to society, and anyone who uses them can face severe legal repercussions. As a gatekeeper, identified common signs to detect fake IDs and communicating promptly is a vital step in protecting yourself and others from potential harm. We hope this article has equipped you with a fundamental understanding of how to spot a fake ID. Don’t hesitate to seek regulated backup if you are unsure or suspicious with the received ID.