Fake DMV ID Card

Last month, the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles issued a Delaware identification card to a woman using her own photograph but another woman’s biographical information, state police said today.

The bearer of that identification card then presented the ID to a teller at a WSFS bank branch and withdrew $1,900 from the other woman’s bank accounts (more here)

Questions: 1. Why didn't the state verify the individual's identity prior to issuing the ID card? 2. Was the expression on the fraudster's face in the ID photo a clue??

How secure do you need your ID card?

I've notice that you can go on web sites like Big Huge Labs and make a photo ID card in about 30 seconds that can be printed and laminated. And you can have a bit of fun doing it! Of course there is limited card design ability and card technology (mag stripe, prox, rfid) can not be incorporated. Nor will the card include any security features like holograms, UV ink, or special card elements.

Here's the thing. Sites like this point out how easy it is to make a photo ID card. Making a secure, well made photo ID card is a different story which is in part why guys like us exist. How important is your ID card security? Would it shock you if an 8th grader could reasonably reproduce your card on-line or with Photoshop? We often tell customers that they can choose how secure (or unsecure) their card is based on design choices. It's simply up to you.

Sir, your 152090 is upside down

OK this is weird to point out, I know, but the badge clips used in NBC's website for "The Office" are not quite right. That's nerdy of me, but c'mon get it right. I mean, that totally wouldn't work unless you were wearing that 152090 in conjunction with a 153076. OK, that was nerdier still... help me.

'Averaging' faces could improve ID card security

This news story came to my attention just a few minutes after the last post. No kidding!! Check out the YouTube use by the news organization. By the way, also check out the dog photo on the passport in the video. Years ago there was a rumor about a Pentagon employee that pasted a dog photo over his image on his DOD photo ID card.

So the big question for me is does face averaging work with average faces? People say I look like someone else all the time!

YouTube - ID Style

Now and again we load a video on YouTube to help a staff mate or customer understand a concept visually. We've noticed a few other folks in the industry are doing the same thing. Here is a sample from a printer manufacturer. YouTube can be a handy medium to communicate a quick (or maybe long) visual message. A few observations (or maybe questions):

• Does a video for business use need high end production values or just communicate the intended message?
• Should any videos posted address a specific, unique topic or is it OK to load up "canned" marketing style product videos?
• Would a library of specific application videos be handy?
• Don't you think this is a better use for this medium that seeing all the videos of some poor sap getting hit you know where with a blunt object?

Sigh....these must be Friday thoughts...

ID Cards for Pets??

Check out this photo! Possible explanations:

• Our industry is going to the dogs....
• Someone discovered a whole new market
• A medical facility is trying to be cute

Read about it here.

Best Badge Reel Ever!

The "BrewBack" is more than just a badge reel...
Perfect for the Bartenders (and Bartender Wannabees) out there.

So cool

:)