Answer
Jan 29, 2025 - 01:05 PM
When screening a prospective new tenant it is always recommended to review their identification such as an SSN card, driver's license, and/or passport. Properly vetting their documents includes obtaining a copy or meeting face to face to ensure the documents are real.
Here’s how to spot fake driver’s licenses, SSN cards, or passports:
For a driver's license you'll want to look for:
- Holograms: Check for holograms that appear and move under light. Fakes often lack this feature.
- Barcode/Chip: Verify scannable barcodes or chips; fake ones often don't work.
- Font & Spacing: Look for uneven or inconsistent text and poor-quality printing.
- UV Features: Genuine licenses have UV-visible elements like state emblems.
- Photo: Blurry or misaligned photos are red flags.
When reviewing a Social Security Card analyze the:
- Material: Genuine cards are made of durable banknote paper.
- Seal: The SSA seal should be clear, not blurry or distorted.
- Typography: Uniform and professional fonts; no smudges or alterations.
With passports you'll want to focus on::
- Watermarks: Check for intricate watermarks visible under light.
- Microprinting: Look for fine print under magnification; fakes lack detail.
- Photo & Lamination: Ensure the photo isn’t peeling or misaligned.
- RFID Chip: Modern passports have an embedded chip; ensure it scans.
If you're questioning the authenticity of the document, consult the issuing authority for verification.
