A fake ID is an identification document that contains false information. While fake IDs may be used by underage people to purchase alcohol or enter a club, they are also commonly associated with other crimes such as fraud and identity theft.
The penalties for possessing and using a buy fake ID vary by state. Generally, first-time offenders will receive fines instead of jail time.
1. Borrowed IDs
Borrowed IDs are often used by underage patrons seeking to gain entrance to bars and other age-restricted establishments. This type of fake ID is typically lifted from a friend or family member who has a valid ID and is willing to vouch for the underage person. To spot this type of fake ID, look for discrepancies between the name and date of birth on the ID and the person standing before you. You should also check the ID’s security features, including the unique hologram from each state.
Many people who use fake IDs also alter them to change their information or appear older. For example, they may replace the date of birth or “Under Until” date with a later year. This can be spotted by examining the ID closely and looking for raised ridges or shiny spots on the dates. You can also gently squeeze the ID and bend it to see if it unfolds or buckles.
A forged fake ID is often made in a counterfeiting operation, where the owner uses high-quality printing equipment to create an exact replica of a real government-issued identification document. These counterfeiters use specialized graphics software, advanced printing presses, and a variety of different materials to produce these fake IDs. They are then sold online and through underground marketplaces. Forged IDs are easy to spot if you examine them closely, but they are still a problem for businesses.
2. Altered IDs
Although fake IDs are most often associated with underage drinking, they can be used to commit other crimes, such as theft, public benefit fraud and human trafficking. The penalties for possessing or using a fake ID vary from state to state, but the general offense is typically considered a misdemeanor. However, manufacture and sale of a fake ID can result in felony charges that carry harsher punishments.
There are a few different ways to obtain a fake ID: You can make it yourself, buy one from a local vendor or order one online. It is important to note that making a fake ID on your own is the most dangerous option as it requires many tools, including photo editing software, laminating pouches and professional printers. It is also recommended to purchase the highest quality card stock you can afford as it will give your ID a better appearance and make it more difficult to spot.
Forged IDs can be difficult to spot because they often look legitimate to the naked eye and include stolen personal information and a photograph of the ID holder. However, with increasing access to technology, fake IDs have become more sophisticated and can even include barcodes that are encoded with matching information. Be sure to compare the ID holder’s face to their body and pay special attention to their eyes to see if they track upwards, a sign that their identity may have been altered.
3. Forged IDs
A forged ID begins as a genuine government-issued document and is then altered by fraudsters. These documents are typically used to bypass age restrictions in bars and clubs. They can also be used to make illegal purchases or gain access to restricted services like airports and hotels. Forged IDs are most commonly used by underage people who want to buy alcohol or tobacco products, but they can also be abused by criminals to fund their operations.
These forged IDs can be difficult to spot, but they usually have unique features that set them apart from legitimate documents. For example, a forged ID may not include the person’s middle name or zodiac sign and can have mismatched information on their photo and birth date. In addition, forged IDs often have ragged edges and can’t be read when held up to UV light.
While the laws governing fake IDs vary from state to state, most consider it a crime to possess a false identification document. The penalties for this crime may include jail time and fines. In some states, a person can be charged with possession of a fake ID even if they never actually use it to commit a crime. If you suspect that an ID is fake, ask the individual questions to determine their true identity. If the answers don’t match, you should turn them away from your establishment.
4. Fake IDs in the United States
Although laws governing fake IDs vary on a state-by-state basis, most have similar standards. It is a crime to possess any type of false identification, and the penalties are based on the reason for using the fake ID in question. For example, presenting a fake ID to obtain alcohol or other substances may result in misdemeanor charges while attempting to purchase a firearm could lead to felony convictions.
Detecting a fake ID can be difficult, particularly with modern technology that is capable of creating realistic documents. Despite the difficulties, there are still some telltale signs that an ID is fake. Often, fake IDs have printing errors or are of poor quality. They also lack security features such as watermarks and holograms that are present on real IDs.
Another good indicator of a fake ID is the font used on the document. Most states use the same font (Arial) on their IDs, and if the ID you’re examining uses a different font, it is likely that the document is fake.
Conclusion
Finally, you should always examine the ID’s photo against the person holding it. You can often spot a fake ID by looking at the eyes, nose, and mouth of the person in the photograph. Also, pay attention to the font in the photograph: most states use Courier with slab serifs while others may use Arial or other types of script.