DBS Announce Digital ID Verification For Criminal Record Checks

Over the last 20 years the Disclosure and Barring Service have had the same ID guidelines in place for checking an applicant’s identity. These processes were, of course, acceptable some years ago, but in a transitional world where technology is dominant, the existing rules have become antiquated and somewhat logistically impossible. 

Currently all applicants applying for a DBS check must have original documents checked by the organisation that requested the check. Covid rules do allow copies and video calls to take place, but, in all cases, an original should be seen periodically during the recruitment process. Additionally, the documents accepted for a DBS check have become obsolete. For example, bank statements and utility bills must be sent in the post and cannot be online copies. Research shows that 70% of banking customers opt for online statements and many utility customers receive their bills and statements in the same way. This results in applicants struggling to provide enough ID when applying for a DBS Check.

On the 17^th January 2022 the government made an announcement regarding certified digital identity providers being used DBS Checks. This has resulted in the Disclosure and Barring service working collectively with the Department of Culture and the Home office to create its guidance requirements for digital identity verification across all DBS Checks.

What is Digital ID and a Digital Identity?

A digital ID is a digital representation of who you are and it can be used during interactions and transactions. Because it is digital it can be used online or in person. A digital ID lets a person store pieces of personal information about themselves such as legal name, date of birth, address and their right to work and this information can then be shared with prospective employers and organisations when carrying out things such as ID checks.