by Fake IDs have been around for decades, and their popularity is not going to die anytime soon. Even though it is illegal to use or produce a fake ID, many young adults still procure and use them for various reasons. As a bar or restaurant owner, it is crucial that you know how to spot a fake ID and prevent underage drinking. In this article, we will give you tips and tricks to identify a fake ID and stay one step ahead of underage patrons.
- Look at the ID Structure:
One of the first and most obvious things to look out for when checking an ID is the structure of the card. Most state-issued IDs and driver’s licenses have a rigid structure that includes a hologram, barcodes, and precise lettering. A fake ID is more likely to have irregular edges, low-quality images, and varying font sizes. They may also lack the identifying markers that come standard with real IDs. Once you know what the real ID looks like, it will be easy to spot a fake.
- Observe ID Characteristics:
Fake IDs often have vague or blurry images, which is a significant red flag. They may also have different coloring than original IDs. Height, weight, and other characteristics may also not match up with what’s on the license. If you sense something is off, you should ask the person questions about the information on the ID. If they cannot answer these questions, it is a good indication that the ID is fake.
- Pay Attention to Microprint:
Microprinting is a security feature on authentic IDs that fake ID makers often overlook. Microprint is tiny, printed text that is often indistinguishable from the naked eye or under a magnifying glass. However, if you use a powerful magnifying glass or a UV flashlight, it’s often possible to see the microprinting on an authentic ID, while a fake ID will have an unclear print.
- Verify Age and Expiry Date:
It is essential to check if the ID is still valid and if the person is of legal drinking age. While some ID checks become second nature, certified servers need to pay attention to information on the card. The ID should not only have an expiration date, but the date should also match the person’s appearance. Some people may purchase a fake ID, but it may not match their appearance or look older than their date of birth.
- Be Aware of Social Engineering Tactics:
Sometimes, people may try to distract or confuse servers to prevent them from scrutinizing the ID. They may act nervous, intimidated or threaten legal action to confuse the server enough to overlook the suspicious ID. As a server, it is essential to remain calm and ask questions to verify what’s on the ID.
Fake IDs have been a part of our society for a long time now. Although they are used by many for different reasons, the primary goal is always the same – to gain access to certain privileges that the bearer is not entitled to. This has led to many adverse effects, including identity theft and fraud. It is therefore essential to have a good understanding of fake IDs and how to identify them. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide on reading and understanding fake IDs.
Look for the design and layout of the ID
The first step in identifying a fake ID is to look at its design and layout. A real ID is printed on high-quality material that is hard to replicate, and its layout is always the same. If you notice anything unusual about the design, such as faded prints, incorrect colors, or a poor layout, it is probably a fake ID. Also, check if the ID is flimsy or plastic, as real IDs are typically printed on composite material.
Check for watermarks and security features
Real IDs, such as driver licenses, have several security features that are hard to replicate. One of these features is the watermark, which is visible when the ID is held up to the light. Also, check for any holograms or microprints on the ID, as these are other security features that are not easy to replicate. If you notice any of these features missing or not properly positioned, then the ID may be a fake.
Verify the information on the ID
Every ID has personal information imprinted on it, such as the bearer’s name, age, address, and date of birth. It is crucial to verify this information to ensure that it matches the person presenting the ID. Check if the photo on the ID matches the bearer in terms of physical appearance, such as facial features and hair color. Also, check if the date of birth and age correspond to the person’s physical appearance and demeanor.
Examine the bar code or magnetic strip on the ID
All real IDs have a bar code or magnetic strip, which contains all the bearer’s information in a code that is readable by a scanner. A fake ID may have a bar code or magnetic strip, but the information contained therein may be incorrect or not registered in any database. If the scanner does not read the code or shows an error, it is probably a fake.
Observe the behavior of the bearer
The final step in identifying a fake ID is by observing the behavior of the person presenting the ID. The person may behave nervously or become agitated if questioned about the ID’s authenticity. They may also avoid eye contact or be evasive when explaining the information on the ID. These behavioral changes are often red flags that indicate the person is presenting a fake ID.
Conclusion:
There is no doubt that fake IDs will continue to exist, but as a bar or restaurant owner, it is essential to stay vigilant in detecting and preventing using fake IDs. By acquiring a thorough understanding of what different ID cards look like and how to spot a fake, you can help ensure the safety of your patrons and avoid legal problems associated with serving minors. Remember to keep a sharp eye, ask questions, verify crucial information and always put the safety of your customers first.
In conclusion, fake IDs pose a significant threat to society, and it is essential to know how to identify them. We have provided a complete guide on reading and understanding fake IDs, as well as critical steps to follow when verifying their authenticity. Remember, if you suspect that an ID is fake, it is always best to contact the authorities or the appropriate agency to verify its authenticity. Stay safe and always verify before giving access to anyone presenting an ID.
