What is identity verification?
An identity verification service ensures that users or customers provide information that is associated with the identity of a real person. The service may verify the authenticity of physical identity documents such as a driver’s license, passport, or a nationally issued identity document through documentary verification.
Identity verification service is used both online and in-person to verify identities and is often related to anti-money laundering.
FAQs about identity verification
How do you verify an identity?
Identity verification confirms a person is who they claim to be. It typically involves three steps: collecting personal details, validating a government-issued ID document to confirm it is genuine, and matching that document to the person, usually via a biometric selfie or liveness check. Modern services automate this process using AI, allowing it to happen remotely in seconds.
What documents count as proof of identity in the UK?
Primary documents include a valid passport, UK driving licence, national identity card (EU/EEA nationals), or Biometric Residence Permit. Secondary documents — used to confirm address — include utility bills, bank statements, and HMRC or council tax correspondence. The exact combination required depends on the context, as banks, employers, and regulated services each have their own rules.
How do banks verify identity in Europe?
Banks across the EU must verify customers under Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) obligations. The EU’s new AML Regulation (AMLR) — which replaces the previous patchwork of national AML Directives — harmonises these requirements across all member states and establishes AMLA, a central EU supervisory authority. Banks typically require a government-issued photo ID and proof of address and most now do this digitally through automated platforms that perform document checks, facial matching, and liveness detection. The EU’s eIDAS regulation also enables banks to accept notified electronic identity schemes, making cross-border digital verification increasingly straightforward.
What is the best identity verification service?
The right service depends on your use case, markets, and compliance requirements. Key factors include document coverage, biometric accuracy, fraud detection, and regulatory certifications.
IDnow is one of Europe’s leading providers, offering automated AI-powered verification, video-based identity checks, and qualified electronic signatures, all built for regulated industries like banking, insurance, and telecoms. It holds certifications under eIDAS 2.0 and is trusted by organisations that need to balance strong fraud prevention with a smooth user experience.