Sending Personal Information Online Puts Fake ID Buyers at Risk
More Than 340 Fake IDs Seized at Concert Venues Across New York State This Year
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning New Yorkers that using fake IDs is not only a crime, it can lead to identity theft that can cause a lifetime of problems. The warning comes as more than 300 young people were cited during summer concerts for attempting to buy alcohol with fake IDs during DMV’s annual Operation Prevent enforcement detail.
“Young people should think carefully about sending their most sensitive, personal information online to someone who has already proven they are willing to break the law,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “Buying a fake ID online is an invitation to have your identity stolen and to put your future in jeopardy.”
According to ID verification company Veriff, 32.2 percent of college students have admitted to owning a fake ID, which they ordered online. Young people purchasing fake IDs often do not realize they are sending their personal information to criminals who plan to sell the buyer’s personal data on the black market, or use it to commit other crimes. The sellers of fake IDs are often located out of the country, making it difficult for law enforcement to track them down.
Counterfeit IDs are used to establish false identities, enable white collar and organized crime, conduct online financial fraud, support hijacking of shipments, establish shell companies and accounts, and enable physical check fraud, according to the Document Security Alliance, a group of more than 100 organizations, including NYS DMV, focused on combating counterfeit documents.
Operation Prevent
Conducted each year, the Operation Prevent enforcement initiative seeks to prevent the use of fake IDs while also discouraging underage drinking and driving. Throughout the year, with a focused effort during the summer months, DMV will check for fake IDs at concert venues and other places young people gather across New York State. While most of the enforcement is at concerts, DMV also focuses on bars and restaurants.
This year, 313 people were cited and 343 fake IDs were seized. DMV works with local law enforcement and the State Liquor Authority. The numbers are similar to last year, when 307 people were cited and 349 fake IDs were seized.
Citations and fake ID seizures by region include:
Region | Citations | Fake ID Seizures |
|---|---|---|
Capital Region | 81 | 99 |
Central New York | 45 | 46 |
Finger Lakes | 121 | 125 |
Long Island | 58 | 65 |
Mid-Hudson | 8 | 8 |
Total | 313 | 343 |
State Liquor Authority Chair Lily Fan said, “Everyone deserves a safe summer, and Operation Prevent is just one of many ways New York State works to safeguard our youth, ensuring that alcohol stays out of the hands of underage concert goers. The State Liquor Authority is proud to join Governor Kathy Hochul and DMV in our ongoing efforts to promote healthy and fun summer concert seasons.”
Dr. Chinazo Cunnigham, Commissioner of the State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, said, “Underage alcohol use can lead to significant short-term and long-term consequences and health issues, and it is important that young people understand these risks. Working with our agency partners, we are sending a strong message that underage drinking is not safe, and we are keeping alcohol out of the hands of those under 21.”
For more information about DMV, visit the DMV website, or follow the DMV conversation online at Facebook, X and Instagram.
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