Document Authentication

Document authentication validates that an identity document or supporting record is genuine and unaltered. Techniques include visual forensics (microprint, holograms), MRZ checksum and format checks, barcode and PDF417 parsing, and NFC chip reads with signature verification where available. Image forensics detects tampering like reprinting or compositing, while metadata analysis flags anomalies.Quality thresholds and coached capture raise success rates. Authentication should be jurisdiction-aware, as formats and security features vary widely. Combine with face match and liveness to bind the document to the presenter; log evidence, decisions, and versions for audit. Strong authentication reduces counterfeit acceptance, accelerates onboarding, and feeds stronger downstream screening by ensuring high-quality attributes.