Spotting Fake IDs: Protecting Your Business and Customers

Oct 11 / Fogell
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In this blog post, our focus will be on recognizing forged IDs. Advances in technology have made forged IDs more sophisticated, often featuring barcodes encoded with matching information. However, it's worth noting that the security features on official IDs, particularly at the state level, have also improved significantly. Each state now incorporates unique security elements, such as holograms, UV imagery, and laser embossing, to enhance their authenticity.

What to Look For

While fake IDs have become more challenging to identify, there are several methods to determine their authenticity:
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  • Physical Examination: By feeling the card, scanning the barcode, and scrutinizing for misspellings or missing information, you can often spot a fake ID.
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  • Behavioral Cues: Observing the cardholder's behavior can provide valuable insights. Signs of anxiety or unclear responses to questions may indicate that the ID merits further scrutiny..
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Now, let's delve into the intricacies of spotting fake IDs based on the unique security features found on IDs in Illinois.

Characteristics of Illinois State IDs

Illinois state IDs feature specific security elements that help distinguish them from counterfeits,
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  • Holographic Seal: Genuine Illinois IDs incorporate a holographic seal that becomes visible when held up to the light. It showcases the Illinois state insignia and adds an extra layer of security.
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  • Laser-Engraved Date of Birth: To verify the authenticity of an Illinois ID, check for the laser-engraved date of birth. Run your fingers over it to ensure it's present and matches the established standards.
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  • UV Imagery: Illinois IDs, like many other states, utilize UV imagery. When exposed to a blacklight, a second, lighter image of the cardholder should become visible.
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  • Laser-Embossed Signature: The cardholder's signature is typically laser embossed, creating a raised effect that is difficult to replicate on fake IDs.
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  • Professional-Grade Laminate: Illinois state IDs are sealed with a high-quality laminate that resists bending, peeling, or showing signs of flimsiness when subjected to a 'U' shape test.
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Top 5 Fake ID Mistakes and How to Spot Them.

  • Incorrect Holographic Seal: Counterfeit IDs often feature poorly executed or non-existent holographic seals. To spot this mistake, check for a missing or irregular holographic seal. If it's not the Illinois state insignia, be cautious.
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  • Mismatched Date of Birth: One common fake ID mistake is tampering with the date of birth. Run your fingers over the date; if it feels altered or doesn't match the standard format, it's likely a fake.
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  • Missing or Inaccurate UV Imagery: Fake IDs may lack the second, lighter image visible under UV light. If you suspect an ID, shine a blacklight on it to see if the UV imagery appears correctly.
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  • Unconvincing Laser Embossing: Inspect the cardholder's signature. If it lacks the raised, laser-embossed effect and feels flat or printed, it's a potential red flag.
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  • Poor-Quality Laminate: Bend the ID into a 'U' shape; genuine Illinois IDs have professional-grade laminates that resist bending and peeling. If the card feels flimsy or exhibits bubbling, it's likely a fake.
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Normal text.By familiarizing yourself with the unique features of Illinois state IDs and being vigilant about these common fake ID mistakes, you can better protect your business and customers from potential risks associated with fake identification. For comprehensive training in responsible alcohol service and compliance with Illinois state regulations, explore BASSET classes. You can learn more about these classes and enhance your knowledge by visiting IllinoisBASSET.com, a valuable resource for businesses in Illinois.
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