Government Issued ID
This method uses remote Electronic Identification Validation Technology (eIDVT) to verify physical photographic identity documents such as passports, driving licences, national ID cards or military ID. The date of birth and photo are captured either visually (using optical character recognition (OCR) of the machine-readable zone (MRZ)) or by reading an embedded chip using near-field communication (NFC). The user takes a selfie which is then compared to the document image to confirm that the ID belongs to the person presenting it. Some systems require a video or a series of photos in quick succession to help prove “liveness” and guard against presentation attacks (using existing photos or masks etc.)
Reusable Digital ID
This approach allows the user to create a secure digital identity or age credential on their own device. Once set up, the user can choose to share their age or age-range with a digital service. To confirm the identity matches the original record, the user may be required to authenticate using a PIN, password or biometric method such as facial recognition or a fingerprint.
Open Banking
With the user’s consent, this method accesses verified information from their bank account using secure APIs regulated under the UK’s Open Banking framework. Bank-held data such as the account holder’s name and date of birth can be matched against the digital service’s requirements. This method does not share financial transaction data but can provide a highly reliable source of age.