Redding Chico Eureka
REDDING, Calif. — California is rolling out a new tool to crack down on fraud and fake IDs, a change that some local bartenders say could make a noticeable difference on busy nights.
Gov. Gavin Newsom announced digital signature barcodes for state IDs and driver’s licenses. The updated IDs are designed to make verification easier, safer and more secure by allowing card readers to quickly determine whether an ID is valid.
Local bartender Sammy Woods said the change could help deter people from trying to use fake identification.
“I think it’s going to slow people down. It’s not going to stop people; people are still going to do their thing, but it slows people down, and it gets people to think twice about things, any little preventive measure can help go a long way,” Woods said.
Woods said fake IDs are not new in the bar scene.
“It happens, especially the younger crowd. They find ways to meet people and mingle their way in, and that’s where bad things can happen,” he said.
He also said the ability to scan and check an ID quickly could help staff keep lines moving.
“It definitely makes it easier on the bartender. I mean, you have something you can just scan and check out immediately. It’s going to save us time, and it’s going to make life so much simpler in the sense that I don’t have to worry too much if I’m dealing with a fake ID,” Woods said.
The announcement comes as fraud losses continue to climb nationwide. According to the Federal Trade Commission, losses related to fraud reached $15.85 billion, with identity theft leading the way. In California alone, there were more than 435,000 reported fraud cases.
Some customers said they support the added security.
“I think it’s a good idea, right. We don’t want anybody going around using something that’s not legit. Yeah, it just helps to know who you are,” said resident Mitch Wallen.
State officials said there is no need to rush to change an ID, and current IDs will remain valid until they expire.
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