Using a TrustID chip reader involves following straightforward on-screen instructions to securely extract data from your identity document for verification. This process is designed to be user-friendly, guiding you through each step to ensure your information is accurately and safely captured.
What is a TrustID Chip Reader?
A TrustID chip reader, often integrated into their digital identity verification process (e.g., via a smartphone app or web portal using your device's NFC capability), is a tool used to read the embedded electronic chip within certain identity documents. These chips contain biometric and biographical data that can be securely extracted and verified, offering a robust layer of security against fraud.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use the TrustID Chip Reading Function
The process of reading the chip in your document with TrustID typically involves a few key steps, guided by the system's instructions.
1. Prepare Your Document and Device
- Ensure good lighting: Make sure you are in a well-lit area to avoid shadows or glare on your document, which can interfere with the optical reading of the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) if required first.
- Stable surface: Use a flat, stable surface for placing your document.
- Ready your device: If using a smartphone, ensure it has NFC (Near Field Communication) enabled and that the TrustID application or web portal is open and ready to begin the chip reading step.
2. Initiate the Chip Reading Process
- The TrustID application or web page will prompt you to begin the chip reading stage. You might first be asked to scan the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of your document (the two or three lines of text at the bottom of the photo page) using your device's camera. This helps establish a secure connection with the chip.
- Once the MRZ is successfully read, the system will guide you to proceed with the chip reading.
3. Position Your Document for Chip Reading
- Follow the instructions to read the chip in your document. The TrustID system will provide clear, visual instructions on how to position your identity document against your device (e.g., a smartphone's NFC antenna).
- For most smartphones, the NFC antenna is located near the top rear of the device. You'll need to gently place the document flat against this area.
- Ensure the entire document, especially the area where the chip is located (often near the photo page), is making good contact with your device.
4. Read the Chip
- Hold steady: Once the document is in position, hold it very still. The chip reader will begin to extract the data.
- Visual cues: The TrustID interface will likely display a progress indicator or a message indicating that it is "Reading chip..." or "Processing data..."
- Do not move your document or device until the process is complete. This usually takes a few seconds.
5. Completion and Data Transmission
- Once the chip is successfully read, the TrustID system will confirm completion.
- That's it, your information will be securely and safely sent to us to verify your identity. The extracted data is encrypted and transmitted directly to TrustID for identity verification purposes. You will then typically proceed to the next step of your identity check, such as a liveness check or document review.
Key Tips for a Smooth Chip Scan
- Patience is key: Hold your document steady for the entire duration of the scan, even if it takes a few extra seconds.
- Experiment with positioning: If the first attempt fails, slightly adjust the position of your document against your device's NFC area. Sometimes a small shift can make a difference.
- Check for NFC: Ensure NFC is enabled on your smartphone if you are using it as the reader. This is usually found in your phone's settings under "Connected devices" or "Wireless & networks."
- Troubleshooting: If you encounter persistent issues, refer to the in-app help or TrustID's support resources.
Supported Documents
The TrustID chip reader typically supports a range of documents containing an electronic chip (e-documents):
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| e-Passports | Passports issued with the international e-passport symbol (a small rectangle with a circle inside). |
| National ID Cards | Many national identity cards issued by governments in the UK, EU, and other regions contain an e-chip. |
| Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) | UK-issued BRPs contain a chip that can be read for identity and immigration status verification. |
| Other e-documents | Some driving licenses or other travel documents may also contain an embedded chip. |
It's always best to refer to TrustID's specific guidelines regarding which documents are supported for their chip reading service. For general information on electronic identity documents, you can consult resources like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Why Digital Chip Reading?
Utilizing chip reading for identity verification offers significant benefits:
- Enhanced Security: The data on the chip is digitally signed and encrypted, making it highly secure and difficult to tamper with.
- Accuracy: Directly extracting data from the chip reduces human error in data entry.
- Fraud Prevention: It helps verify the authenticity of the document and the identity of the holder, combating identity fraud.
- Speed: The process is typically much faster than manual data entry or verification.
By following the prompts from the TrustID system and these general guidelines, you can efficiently and securely use the chip reading function for your identity verification needs.
