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What is Legl NFC?

NFC is a method of obtaining a client’s identity that scans the NFC chip inside a clients passport using their phone.

Tess Brown avatar
Written by Tess Brown
Updated over 2 weeks ago

What is Legl NFC?

The importance of robust identity verification processes in the legal sector cannot be overstated. That’s why we have created a Near Field Communication (NFC) digital ID solution into our platform, in partnership with Mitek Systems.

This partnership combines our deep understanding of legal compliance with Mitek’s cutting-edge technology, to offer an unmatched digital ID verification solution from within our platform.

What is NFC Technology?

NFC technology offers a higher level of security and convenience when conducting identity checks. By reading cryptographic chips embedded in modern ID documents, the technology is capable of providing a more reliable authentication method than traditional visual inspections.

Key features of Legl’s NFC digital ID solution

  • Automatic Good Practice Guide (GPG) 45 scoring: Our solution automatically categorises identity confidence levels, ranging from low to high, simplifying the onboarding process.

  • Practice Guide 81 compliant: Using our NFC technology, alongside our suite of legal compliance tools, not only meets but exceeds current regulatory expectations, ensuring the highest levels of data security and client trust.

NFC Coverage Overview

1. Passports

NFC technology can read all ePassports from ICAO 9303-compliant countries. The verification status varies as follows:

  • Read & Verify: Complete verification with country signing certificates.

  • Read & Partially Verify: Limited verification due to partial country signing certificates.

  • Read Only: Can read but lacks verification capability.

  • No Chip: Passports without NFC chips cannot be read.

European Compliance

As of 2024, all EEA countries (except Denmark and Liechtenstein) issue ICAO 9303-compliant identity cards and residence permits. The UK does not issue identity cards but provides ICAO-compliant residence permits.

African Compliance

In Africa, 44 out of 55 countries issue ePassports. NFC-enabled devices can read all of them, but verification is possible only for countries that provide public access to their country signing certificates.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Document Not Readable

  • Ensure the NFC feature on your device is enabled.

  • Position the document correctly on the NFC reader.

  • Use a device that supports NFC reading.

Partial Verification

  • Some countries do not publicly share their signing certificates, limiting verification.

  • Contact support for additional verification options.

Document Not Supported

  • Non-ICAO-compliant documents cannot be read.

  • Ensure the document has an NFC chip.

Partnership with Mitek Systems

Mitek Systems is a global leader in digital identity verification. By integrating their expertise with Legl’s client-centric solutions, we ensure that our NFC solution is not just technologically advanced but also tailored to meet the specific challenges and compliance requirements of the legal sector.

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