Identity Document Fraud Awareness

ID Fraud Identity theft remains one of South Africa’s major crimes. It costs the country over 1 billion rand. Recently Vodacom has noticed an increase in ID fraud at the stores By law, a South African ID document is issued to all citizens 16 years or older and to all individuals who are lawfully and permanently resident in South Africa. In 2010 the The Department of Home Affairs introduced a new and more secure green bar coded ID book. It should be noted that the old Identity Documents are still valid and that consumers may not be turned away because of them having older versions.

What to look out for when checking ID documents All new Identity Documents are only written in English, the old one had both English and Afrikaans. The photograph is now digitally printed in black and white. First and second pages are protected by lamination. Instead of having drivers and firearm licenses in the Identity Document, there are now pages that include important information about the Home Affairs track and trace systems for applications for Identity Documents; Passports; Marriage and Life Status verification. On the outside, it has the South African Coat of Arms printed on the top half of the page.

What to look out for when checking ID documents The page number appears on the top of the page. The paper used is of high quality with a specific density and structure and is not available commercially. Top and bottom edges of the identity book is shaped and cut as a half-moon. This is an important feature as some syndicates may not be able to copy this security feature. The watermark is in the form of a triangle with the lettering RSA inside the triangle. The watermark is visible to the eye when the book is held to the light. On the outside, it has the South African Coat of Arms printed on the top half of the page.

Tips on how to spot a fraudulent ID document The surname and initials on page 1 and 4 should correspond on the old ID book. The surname and identity number should correspond on pages 1 and 4 on the old ID book. The fonts on page 1 and 4 should correspond on the old ID book. On new identity number on page 1 should correspond with identity numbers repeated on pages 5 & 8 The person’s gender should correspond with the numbering according to the identity document. The holder’s citizen status should correspond with the identity number. There should be no lettering visible next to the actual photograph. Check for signs of glue holding the picture in place on page 1. Check the alignment of the letters and words (horizontally & vertically). Compare the photograph on the document with the actual person. Check the watermarks on the pages in the ID document.

Example of the new Smart ID Card

ID Fraud Thank you