Glossary Videoident 

Videoident

Videoident – explained simply:

Video identification is now standard practice in many places for digitally verifying customers' identities. Examples include opening an account, concluding a contract, and AML checks.

The process sounds simple: after entering your data, you make a short video call with an agent who checks your ID document. However, despite seeming practical on paper, in reality it is an error-prone and time-consuming process for many users. Poor internet connections, communication issues, limited opening hours, long waiting times and technical interruptions often cause frustration. For companies, this means interrupted processes, lost deals and a negative user experience.

This article explains how the video identification process works and why it tests the patience of many users.

What makes Videoident procedures special

Videoident is a method of online identity verification carried out via video chat in real time. Users show their ID to the camera while a trained employee checks its authenticity and compares their face with the photo on the ID. Security checks such as liveness detection and an ID number for final confirmation supplement the process.

In Germany, this process is regulated by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) and must comply with the requirements of the Money Laundering Act (GwG). Video identification is also permitted in Switzerland, provided that FINMA requirements are met.

Despite regulatory compliance, the process is often not user-friendly. What should be a digital convenience quickly becomes an obstacle.

How the identification process works with Videoident

Users simply need an internet-enabled device with a camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, and a valid ID document to complete the process. The process itself involves several steps.

1. Connecting to the video agent:
   After entering your personal details, you will be connected to an available agent.
2. Preparing the ID card:
   Hold your ID card up to the camera. The agent then checks its validity and features.
3. Movement and visual inspection:
   The document is tilted, rotated or circled as instructed in order to reveal holograms and security details.
4. Face comparison:
   The agent compares the ID photo with the person's actual face.
5. Completion via Ident ID:
   Finally, a unique Ident ID is sent via text message or email to confirm completion of the process.

What should theoretically take just a few minutes often becomes a test of patience due to waiting times, technical problems or interruptions.

Advantages and disadvantages of Videoident at a glance

What legally compliant alternatives are there?

Although videoident has been adopted by many industries, the process is considered relatively complex and error-prone. Therefore, companies would be well advised to consider more modern, future-proof identification methods. There are better alternatives to video identification, especially when user-friendliness, scalability and conversion rates play a key role.

Autoident, also known as Selfie identification, is well on its way to becoming the new standard. PXL Vision is at the forefront of this development, driving it forward with its innovative platform.