Never just hand over a copy of your identity document (ID). Not even if an organisation asks for a copy to set up a mobile phone or rental contract. Do you still have a copy of your passport, identity card or driving licence lying around? Then make a secure copy and cover up unnecessary details including your photo, your signature or your national identification number such as a Burgerservicenummer – BSN (citizen service number), national insurance number or social security number. Or make a secure copy with the KopieID app.
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Identity fraud
Identity fraud involves someone other than yourself using your identity details. This often happens with a copy of your ID. For example, with a copy of your ID showing your name, date of birth and BSN, fraudsters can apply for a loan or set up a mobile phone contract. As a result, you could receive bills for things you did not buy. Do not let your ID be copied by just anyone. Prevent identity fraud by making a secure copy of your ID.
Prevent identity fraud
Is an organisation asking for a copy of your passport, ID card or driving licence? If so, first check whether this is necessary. Registering the type of ID provided and the document number is often enough. For example: 'Passport, NWLFR3706. See also: Which organisations in the Netherlands are allowed to make a copy of my ID?
The organisation requesting the copy of your ID must explain why the copy is necessary. Or on the basis of which legal requirement they need to make a full copy.
Make a secure copy of your ID
Are you going to provide a copy of your ID? Then help prevent misuse of your identity details. For example, you should cover or black out your BSN. This is how to make a secure copy of your ID:
- In the copy, make your BSN unreadable, including in the number line at the bottom.
- Write on the copy that it is a copy.
- Write on the copy for which authority or product the copy is intended.
- Write on the copy the date on which you issue the copy.
Make a secure copy of your ID with the KopieID app
You can make a secure copy of your ID with the KopieID app. This way, you do not give away more personal information than strictly necessary.
You can download the KopieID app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
The app is a publication of the Rijksdienst voor Identiteitsgegevens – RvIG (National Office for Identity Data), part of the Ministerie van Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties (Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations).
