In an age of heightened security and stricter regulations, the Real ID Act of 2005 introduced a new standard for identification in the United States. Designed to enhance security and reduce fraud, Real IDs are now the gold standard for proving identity. Yet, despite these advanced measures, counterfeiters have found ways to fake even Real IDs—especially the barcodes that many ID scanners rely on. This growing issue highlights the critical need for businesses to use advanced fake ID scanners capable of detecting sophisticated counterfeits.

What Is a Real ID?

A Real ID is a form of state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced federal security standards. By May 7, 2025, every American will need a Real ID (or another federally accepted form of identification) to board domestic flights, access federal buildings, and enter certain secure facilities.

Key Features of a Real ID:

• A gold star on the top right corner indicating compliance.
• Enhanced physical security elements like holograms and microprinting.
• Machine-readable barcodes or magnetic stripes encoded with personal data.

To obtain a Real ID, individuals must present verified documents proving their identity, Social Security number, legal residency, and state residency.

The Problem: Even Real IDs Are Being Faked

While Real IDs include multiple security features, counterfeiters have adapted quickly, producing fake IDs that replicate not only the visual elements but also the scannable barcodes. These fake barcodes can fool basic ID scanners, making it harder than ever for businesses to confidently verify someone’s age or identity.

How Fake Real IDs Trick Simple Scanners:

• Encoded Data Replication: Counterfeiters use software to encode matching data into the barcode, making it appear legitimate.
• Missing Security Features: While the barcode may look valid, it often lacks encrypted data or proper formatting.
• Data Mismatches: Some fake IDs contain barcodes where the encoded data doesn’t align with the printed information, but basic scanners can’t detect these inconsistencies.

Why Basic ID Scanners Aren’t Enough

Basic barcode readers simply scan and display the information encoded in the ID’s barcode. They lack the intelligence to determine whether the barcode structure matches the specific security templates used by state DMVs. This makes it possible for fake IDs to "pass" the scan, leading to compliance risks and legal liabilities for businesses.

The Solution: Advanced Fake ID Scanners

To combat sophisticated counterfeits, businesses need ID scanners that go beyond reading barcodes—they need systems that authenticate IDs.

Minor Decliner with Intellicheck offers this level of protection. Here's how it works:

• Proprietary Technology: Intellicheck utilizes a unique analysis of DMV-issued IDs, leveraging a robust database of hidden security features embedded in North American IDs to assess the validity of an identification document with a single scan.

• In-Depth Analysis: It checks for hidden security features, inconsistencies in encoded data, and validates the presence of encrypted information.
• Real-Time Authentication: The system processes scans in under a second, providing instant feedback while maintaining high accuracy (>99%).

Protect Your Business From Fake IDs

With an estimated 8% of scanned IDs found to be fake, relying on basic ID scanners is a gamble businesses can’t afford. Industries like alcohol sales, cannabis dispensaries, and tobacco retailers face hefty fines and legal consequences for serving minors.

By integrating advanced fake ID scanners like Minor Decliner with Intellicheck, businesses can:

• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Protect against underage sales and fraud.
• Maintain detailed logs for auditing and legal protection.

Final Thoughts

While Real IDs were designed to enhance security, counterfeiters have proven their ability to fake even these advanced documents. The answer isn’t to distrust Real IDs—it’s to empower businesses with the tools needed to verify them correctly.

Invest in a fake ID scanner that doesn’t just read barcodes—it authenticates them. Your compliance, reputation, and bottom line depend on it.

Ready to upgrade your ID verification system? Contact us today to learn how Minor Decliner with Intellicheck can help protect your business.