As a company that develops ID scanners and fake ID detection solutions, we're on the front lines of the ongoing battle between responsible retailers and those determined to bypass age verification. Unfortunately, some recent news articles show that underage purchase attempts are surging nationwide, and so are the crackdown operations by local authorities.

Underage Purchases in the News

We've noted a few eye-opening examples recently that show that 10 percent or more of retailers may be at risk of selling to underage customers. In San Francisco, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and the San Francisco Police Department cited five businesses, out of 47 tested, that sold alcohol to a minor. The clerks involved face fines of $250 and 24 to 32 hours of community service. ABC is still deciding on administrative action against the retailers.

In Alabama, Tuscaloosa police conducted a sting and found two out of seventeen locations sold booze to underage buyers. While the fact that fifteen passed the test is to be applauded, it's clear that authorities are taking enforcement seriously. Once again, the clerks were issued citations and will be required to appear in court, as selling alcohol to a minor is a misdemeanor charge in Alabama.

Back in California, Coachella deputies cracked down on underage tobacco sales, with five clerks receiving citations in an operation that targeted 29 retail locations.

These reports paint a clear picture: minors are finding ways to overcome traditional age verification methods. This is a recipe for disaster, putting young people's health at risk and exposing businesses to fines, suspension, or even closure.

Why the Increase in Underage Purchase Attempts?

It seems that attempts to make underage purchases are on the rise and that store clerks are finding it hard to verify customer IDs. A few factors might be at play:

• Fake ID ease of access: The internet has become a supermarket for fraudulent IDs, making them readily available to minors.
• Inconsistent enforcement: Resource limitations can lead to infrequent stings, creating a false sense of security for retailers.
• Outdated verification methods: Ineffective ID scanners or poorly trained staff leave businesses vulnerable.

At the same time, local authorities appear to be making robust attempts to crack down on unauthorized sales. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 25 percent of fatal crashes involve underage drinking, and communities are increasingly calling for ways to reduce the hazards.

Local governments are also implementing incentives for businesses to avoid penalties for a failed compliance check. For example, in Fargo, North Dakota, city commissioners recently voted to allow liquor establishments to have their first $500 failure penalty waived if they agree to use an ID scanner for six months after the offense.

This is where Minor Decliner steps in. Our state-of-the-art ID scanners and fake ID detection solutions are designed to empower businesses to combat underage purchases. Our technology verifies IDs in seconds, with the smarts to sniff out even the most cunning fakes.

By investing in age verification solutions, businesses can:

• Shield themselves from legal trouble: Ensure compliance with local regulations and avoid costly violations.
• Sell responsibly: Uphold their commitment to serving only legal customers.
• Maintain a spotless reputation: Sidestep the negative publicity associated with underage sales.

With underage purchase attempts increasing, a robust age verification system is no longer optional; it's essential. Don't wait for a sting operation to expose a weakness.

Proactive measures can help prevent costly violations while also protecting young people's health. Consider implementing a system to ensure you're serving only those legally entitled to your products.

This blog was originally published in April 2024 and recently updated in August 2024.