Fake Identity Documents

Identity checking is not about proving a document is fake, it is about identifying reasonable concerns and escalating appropriately.

If in doubt, do not accept, escalate to management and record the findings/reasons.

Physical Checks

When you receive the document you should assess it by asking the following questions:

• Does the document look professionally produced?
• Does it feel genuine (quality, thickness, finish)?

Photographic and Identity Match

Check that the person presenting the documents matches the photo ID:

• Facial features (not just hairstyle)
• Age progression (consider natural ageing)
• Facial structure (eyes, nose, jawline)

Information Consistency

When you have the documents, you should cross-check each item to ensure:

• Name matches across all documents
• Date of birth is consistent
• Expiry dates are valid
• Document numbers follow expected format
• Document style follows the expected format & shape

Evidence of Document Tampering

In a physical examination of the document you should be able to spot signs of tampering:

• Scratches, glue marks, or lifted laminate
• Mismatched fonts or spacing
• Inconsistent alignment of text or numbers

What to Do if you Suspect Fraud

• Do not confront or accuse the individual
• Politely delay the process if necessary
• Escalate to HR / Compliance or Screening Team who will contact the police or your local immigration enforcement office