ID.me is arguing that its identity verification technology can help state labor departments deal with their current backlog. The company notes that many labor departments are facing a record number of unemployment claims because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but many people have not yet received their benefits due to the high volume and the need to distinguish legitimate claims from fraudsters who are trying to take advantage of the disruption.
On that front, an identity system like ID.me can ensure that each applicant is indeed the person they claim to be. The automated online system uses document recognition to confirm the authenticity of an official government ID, and can also verify the mobile device being used to complete the process thanks to integrations with mobile operators. Anyone who struggles with the automated version of the platform will be connected with a live agent via video chat to conduct a live (virtual) verification.
ID.me argues that its approach to identity verification is more egalitarian than more traditional economic indicators.
“Online identity verification processes already discriminate against less affluent populations due to their dependency on credit history,” said ID.me Founder and CEO Blake Hall. “The current unemployment crisis precipitated by COVID-19 adds insult to injury as many workers find they are unable to verify their identity online. Our No Identity Left Behind pledge ensures all claimants have equitable access to online services while also preventing fraud.”
The ID.me solution is currently being used in the states of California and Florida. It has also been deployed by several agencies at the Federal level, including the US Department of Veteran Affairs. The technology is compliant with the NIST’s latest Know Your Customer and Anti-Money Laundering requirements, while the company’s Identity Gateway platform previously received FIDO U2F certification all the way back in 2017.
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