Wisconsin DMV Adds New Facial Recognition Security Measure

Since 1998, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sponsored National Consumer Protection Week, which is held annually during the first week of March.

National Consumer Protection Week, which is going on now through March 8, aims to help consumers make informed decisions and avoid scams. Throughout the week, the FTC educates people about their consumer rights and offers advice on avoiding fraud and scams.

Each year, other agencies and organizations join the mission, including the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which reached out to Wisconsinites this week to explain its new verification process and alert tool designed to help them protect their identities.

Wisconsin DMV Shares New Facial Verification Process

There's now a new safety feature available in Wisconsin that protects people ordering a replacement (duplicate) driver's license or ID card. The DMV recently implemented a new automated identity verification process to help protect customers from potential fraud.

The application process compares a person’s selfie photo, taken in the moment, with their photo on file with the DMV. People simply open the DMV application on a device that has a camera and then take a selfie photo. If the image matches the customer’s existing photo on file, the customer can continue with the application.

Get our free mobile app

However, a non-match will prevent the individual from using the online application. This new verification process is designed to help prevent criminals from stealing someone's identity, which often happens without the victim's knowledge.

This new safety feature is available on several DMV applications and it is one of two security measures the DMV announced this week.

Wisconsin DMV Account Alerts Are Now Available

The DMV also reminded consumers they can get account activity alerts and receive confirmation of transactions taking place on their DMV account simply by signing up for eNotify.

Once enrolled, you'll receive a text or email alerting you of activity on your account. This can help avoid fraudulent activities, such as an unwanted change of address or someone else ordering a replacement driver's license or ID.

SEE NOW: 6 Porch Light Colors And What They Now Mean In Wisconsin

Besides the alerts, eNotify also provides customers with renewal reminders for their plate, driver license or ID. If the renewal notification seems off-cycle, a customer can visit wisconsindmv.gov and confirm.

The DMV notes that more than one million Wisconsin residents have already enrolled in eNotify, which provides yet another layer of security to consumers.