ID verification
Verifying your ID
As part of keeping our registry secure and resilient we have an obligation to ensure ID verification to verify your identity where necessary.
For this, Nominet uses Mitek, a digital identity verification service, which is provided in the UK by Hooyu Limited, part of the Mitek Systems group.
How does it work?
There are a number of key registry processes which require identification checks, including in connection with .sch.uk applications, our Domain Watch tool, 2FA resets, re-establish identity cases, non-member zone file applications and new member and registrar onboarding.
When we need to check your identity, we’ll invite you to confirm your identity via Mitek. The Mitek system will guide you through a step-by-step process that involves taking a live picture, like a passport photo, via your device and uploading your identification documents for photo ID and proof of address.
who is Mitek?
Mitek is an industry leading identity verification provider, trusted by financial institutions, payments companies and other businesses operating in highly regulated markets.
Mitek verifies individual identity quickly and securely through ID documentation and facial biometrics.
See Hooyu’s website and Mitek Systems’ website for further information.
What do you need to verify your identity?
You will need to take a live picture, similar to a passport photo, via your device. The Mitek system will use that picture to complete a liveness check to verify the application is being made by a real human. You’ll also need to upload your photo identification document, such as a Passport or Driving Licence, and proof of address document, such as a bill or bank statement. It’s helpful to have these documents ready before starting the process. In some cases, we might require additional documentation.
Here are some tips for completing this process:
- If you’re using your Driving Licence as photo ID, you can also use it for proof of address.
- Use up to date documentation and check it hasn’t expired.
- Ensure any images of documentation are good quality and clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I receive an invitation to complete the ID verification checks?
Nominet will send you an invitation directly, likely through an email related to the application or request that requires you to complete ID verification. The email from us will contain a link to the Mitek service, where you can input your details and receive an SMS verification code to gain access.
How will I access the Mitek service?
In the email sent to you there will be a link to start the process. This will take you to the Mitek service where you can enter your details and receive an SMS verification code to begin the process. Alternatively, you’ll receive an email invitation from Mitek which will also take you there directly.
You won’t need to create an account, log in, or access Mitek via an app. The ID confirmation service can be completed on a smartphone or a web browser.
How long do I have to complete the verification process?
You have seven days from starting the verification process to complete it before it expires, after which time you would need to restart the process. You will receive email reminders to help you complete the process before expiry from noreply@id.miteksystems.com.
Mitek will send a reminder email 3 days before the request expires and a final reminder 24 hours before expiry to ask you to complete the verification process.
What documents do I need?
What documents you need depends on why we’re verifying your identity. Generally, we’ll require you to upload photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence, and proof of address, like a bill or bank statement. If you’re using your Driving Licence as photo ID you will also be able to use it as proof of address.
Examples of documentation you could use, include:
- Passport
- Driving licence
- National Identity card
- Utility Bill
- Bank Statement
- Tax Document
Please note that in some instances, we may ask you to upload additional documents, such as a confirmation letter. If we require additional documents, we will notify you, and you’ll be able to upload them during the verification process.
Why have my documents been rejected?
There are several reasons why the Mitek system might not accept your documents. For example, documents may be rejected if they are poorly lit or show only part of the document, and images may be rejected if the lighting is poor or there is more than one person in the frame. The Mitek system will provide guidance on these issues and how to resolve them.
What happens to my data?
Data processed by the Mitek system is hosted in an EU-based datacentre.
The following retention periods apply:
- Liveness image used to validate ID: 3 days
- Document scans and all other information submitted for verification: 7 days
- Non personal data in the form of transaction IDs and internal system date/time information: 2 years
All data is encrypted at rest and during transit.
All retention periods apply from the date and time a user completes/submits their ID verification application.
What if I don't have access to a smartphone?
You can also complete the verification process via a computer with a webcam. Alternatively, if you’re struggling with accessing the Mitek system or with any part of the process, our customer service team is on hand to help. You can contact them via domainsupport@nominet.uk or on +44(0)330 236 9470.
Is Nominet using Mitek to check ID for new processes or where it wasn't previously required?
There are no additional circumstances in which ID verification is required. We are only improving how existing ID checks are undertaken via a new service provider.
Why is Nominet using an external provider for ID verification?
We’re always looking for ways to improve our customer service processes, and with cybercrimes surrounding falsified documents and attempts to falsify ID only becoming more sophisticated, it’s important for us to improve where we can.
The identification verification process using Mitek enables individuals to verify their identity through a series of checks more quickly and securely.
What if I need help?
If you need help completing the ID verification process, you can contact our customer service team via domainsupport@nominet.uk or on +44(0)330 236 9470.