Whether it is to open a bank account, take out a subscription or even obtain official documents, proof of residence is systematically requested in France. This French specificity is often perceived as a trivial formality, yet it plays a crucial role in the prevention of documentary fraud. Why is this requirement more pronounced in France than elsewhere? We answer you!
The main purpose of the proof of residence is to confirm effective residence.
It is generally a document issued by a trusted entity, such as an energy bill, bank statement, or rental agreement. He attests to the address of an individual.
In France, this practice is linked to administrative control. This control is essential for Prevent identity theft, a fraud that is often based on the use of false documents. Proof of address confirms that the person is real locatable at a specific address which reduces the risk of fraud.
For example, a false justification can be detected by an inconsistency in the data provided or by cross-checks with other entities.
While other countries, especially in Northern Europe (Austria, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands for example), favor centralized and digital identification systems, France maintains an attachment to this paper or digital document.
This difference can be explained by several factors. We're taking stock.
In France, the management of personal data remains fragmented between different organizations, in particular:
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Thus, the proof of address becomes essential for make up for the lack of a centralized register. It attests to the address of a person in administrative, banking or judicial procedures.
French laws, in terms of the fight against fraud and money laundering, require strict checks for banking services, insurance and even certain social benefits.
It is therefore essential for these sectors to assiduously verify the identity and location of applicants.
Read on: What are the legal obligations in anti-fraud banking compliance?
La document fraud takes various forms: falsification of documents, production of false supporting documents or even manipulation of digital data. In this context, proof of address is a first filter.
Some industries are particularly vulnerable to document fraud:
Proof of address is an essential document for open an account or take out a loan. It ensures that the requester is a real, locatable person and, in some cases, that their address is consistent with other information.
In this sector, a false document can be used to change a premium, create a misrepresentation or take out a fraudulent contract.
Social assistance and administrative benefits also require rigorous validation of the information provided to avoid abuse.
Despite its usefulness, the proof of address is drawing criticism.
Some believe that he Unnecessarily complicates administrative procedures, especially at a time when digitizing processes could simplify procedures.
Moreover, the justification remains falsifiable. It can be changed using simple and accessible tools, like retouching software. This fragility is a problem, especially in a context where documents are not subject to systematic verification. In the absence of sophisticated technologies, such as automated document analysis solutions, the risks of fraud increase.
Others question its real effectiveness in the face of organized fraudsters, capable of producing documents that are almost undetectable. This is why initiatives seek to complement or replace this requirement with more robust systems:
Although these actions are thoughtful, this does not prevent the risk of falsification. To best counter the modification of documents, there is nothing better than software to detect false documents!
Technological advances are playing an increasing role in the detection of false credentials. Document recognition and artificial intelligence solutions make it possible toanalyze the characteristics of documents (fonts, logos, etc.) and detect alterations Or the inconsistencies.
These tools help automate controls, making document fraud more difficult and riskier.
These detection software allow the various entities (banks, insurance companies, public sector) to strengthen their controls and avoid any risk of document fraud.
Would your business like to invest in a tool to detect false documents? Contact our experts so they can provide you with information!
