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Check the source
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2
Ask for proof
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3
Cross-check the details
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Test the knowledge
5
Trust your intuition
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Keep learning
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Here’s what else to consider
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Online identity verification is a crucial skill for journalists, researchers, and anyone who needs to communicate or collaborate with people they have never met in person. But how can you be sure that the person you are talking to online is who they claim to be? Here are some of the most effective ways to verify a person's identity online, based on the principles of digital literacy and verification.
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1 Check the source
The first step to verify a person's identity online is to check the source of their information. Where did they get their email address, phone number, social media account, or website? Is it a reputable domain, platform, or service? Does it match their name, location, or affiliation? You can use tools like WHOIS, Reverse Image Search, or DomainTools to find out more about the origin and ownership of online sources.
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2 Ask for proof
The second step to verify a person's identity online is to ask for proof of their identity. This can be done in various ways, depending on the context and purpose of your communication. For example, you can ask them to send you a photo of their ID card, passport, or driver's license, or to show it to you on a video call. You can also ask them to verify their identity through a third-party service, such as Google Authenticator, Authy, or Duo Mobile, which generate one-time codes or push notifications for authentication.
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3 Cross-check the details
The third step to verify a person's identity online is to cross-check the details they provide with other sources of information. For example, you can compare their name, date of birth, address, or email with public records, databases, or directories. You can also look for their online presence on other platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook, and see if their profile, activity, and network are consistent with their identity. You can also use tools like Pipl, Spokeo, or Intelius to find out more about a person's background, history, and reputation.
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4 Test the knowledge
The fourth step to verify a person's identity online is to test their knowledge of the topic, field, or situation they claim to be involved in. For example, you can ask them specific questions about their work, education, experience, or interests, and see if they can answer them accurately and confidently. You can also ask them to provide references, credentials, or samples of their work, and verify them with the relevant sources. You can also use tools like Quizlet, Kahoot, or Socrative to create and administer quizzes or tests online.
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Some individuals go beyond exaggerating their background on social media profiles or online applications. To verify their authenticity, inquire about the knowledge they claim in their profile and ask them to explain it in simple terms. A truthful person will explain their knowledge in understandable words with confidence. In contrast, those who fabricate details may struggle to find the right words, often adding unnecessary words in an attempt to appear knowledgeable, and display doubtness in their speech.
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5 Trust your intuition
The fifth step to verify a person's identity online is to trust your intuition and common sense. If something feels off, suspicious, or too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of red flags, such as inconsistent or contradictory information, vague or evasive answers, unsolicited or urgent requests, or emotional manipulation. Do not share your personal or financial information with anyone you do not know or trust online. And if you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to end the communication or report the person to the appropriate authorities.
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6 Keep learning
The sixth and final step to verify a person's identity online is to keep learning and updating your skills and tools. Online identity verification is not a one-time process, but a continuous and dynamic one. As technology evolves, so do the methods and challenges of verifying online identities. You need to stay informed, curious, and critical of the online information and communication you encounter. You can also join online communities, courses, or events that focus on digital literacy and verification, such as First Draft, Poynter, or Coursera.
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7 Here’s what else to consider
This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?
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