My business uses electronic scanning devices to verify an ID is valid, once I scan the ID, I do not need to compare the picture or physical description because the scanner has verified the sale of alcohol is legal.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: False
Explanation:
While electronic scanning devices can be a helpful tool in verifying the authenticity of an ID, they are not a foolproof method for confirming the legal sale of alcohol. These scanners typically work by reading the information encoded in the magnetic strip or barcode of the ID, including the individual’s date of birth, issue date, and other relevant data. The scanner can then compare this data against the current date to determine if the person is of legal drinking age.
However, relying solely on the scanner to verify the ID is not sufficient for several reasons:
- Picture Comparison: One of the main safeguards in verifying an ID is ensuring that the person presenting the ID matches the picture. A scanner will not automatically detect if the person presenting the ID is the individual on the card. Fraudulent or stolen IDs can pass through the scanner as legitimate, but the individual may not be the rightful owner of the ID.
- Physical Description: In addition to the photo, the physical description on the ID can help further identify the individual. Scanners do not compare the person’s appearance to the description (e.g., height, hair color) on the card. This is an important step in verifying that the person with the ID is indeed the person listed on the ID.
- Altered or Fake IDs: Scanners are not foolproof in detecting highly sophisticated counterfeit IDs. While they may catch basic forgeries or expired IDs, more advanced forgeries may bypass electronic detection.
- State and Local Regulations: Many states and municipalities require that a seller visually inspect the ID and make a reasonable effort to ensure that it is legitimate, in addition to scanning the ID. Relying solely on the scanner may not meet these regulatory requirements.
In conclusion, while scanners can be a helpful tool, they cannot replace the need for manual verification, including checking the person’s photo, physical description, and looking for signs of tampering with the ID.