Comparison
Identity Verification Methods Compared
Not all identity verification is created equal. Here's how the most common methods stack up on the questions that matter.
| Method | Verifies Identity? | Proves Physical Presence? | Deepfake Resistant? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Background Check | Verifies the name, not the person | No | N/A |
| Selfie-to-ID Match | Compares a photo to a document | No | Vulnerable |
| Video Interview | Visual only, no document check | No | Vulnerable |
| Knowledge-Based Auth (KBA) | Tests knowledge, not identity | No | N/A |
| App-Based Biometric | Compares biometric to enrolled template | No | Improving but vulnerable |
| In-Person Notarized Verification | Yes, government ID checked in person | Yes, geo-confirmed location | Yes, physical presence required |
The Common Vulnerability
Every digital verification method shares the same fundamental vulnerability: they can be defeated without the attacker being physically present. In-person verification is the only method that requires a real human being to appear at a confirmed location with a government-issued ID.
Background Checks
Background checks verify a name against databases, criminal records, education, employment history. They're essential, but they answer "does this identity have a clean history?" not "is this person who they claim to be?" A stolen clean identity passes every time.
Selfie-to-ID and Video
These methods compare a live image to a document or rely on visual assessment. Both are vulnerable to deepfake technology that can generate convincing real-time video of another person's face.
App-Based Biometrics
Biometric verification apps compare a live scan (face, fingerprint) to a previously enrolled template. They're improving rapidly, but remain vulnerable to presentation attacks and don't prove the person is at any particular location. They verify a device interaction, not a physical presence.
In-Person Notarized Verification
The only method that requires physical presence at a confirmed location, with a government-issued ID examined by a state-licensed official. It doesn't depend on staying ahead of the latest digital exploit, it operates outside the digital attack surface entirely. Learn more about how it works.
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