Smile ID’s Enhanced SmartSelfie™ Sets New Fraud Prevention Benchmark with Zero Penetration Rate
Smile ID provides real-time digital identity verification enabling businesses to securely confirm user identities across South Africa.
Smile ID, Africa’s leading biometric and identity verification provider, has introduced Enhanced SmartSelfie™, a cutting-edge advancement in fraud prevention technology. This active liveness detection solution uses dynamic facial challenges, such as random movements or gestures, to block fraudsters employing static images, deepfakes, or advanced 3D masks.
The technology’s effectiveness is validated by its ISO/IEC 30107-3:2023 Level 2 certification, achieving a 0% penetration rate against sophisticated facial fraud attacks. This milestone establishes Enhanced SmartSelfie™ as a crucial tool for high-risk industries like banking, remittance, and digital payments.
Key Features of Enhanced SmartSelfie™
Enhanced SmartSelfie™ strengthens traditional biometric authentication with machine-learning-driven liveness challenges requiring user interaction. Smile ID also offers a comprehensive suite of identity verification tools, including Document Verification, Business Verification, AML Checks, Bank Account Verification, and Phone Number Verification. This streamlined integration enhances identity verification processes while maintaining user-friendly experiences.
Tackling Rising Fraud
The surge in digital services has led to escalating fraud across industries:
Nigerian banks reported ₦42.6 billion in fraud losses in Q2 2024, exceeding the total for 2023.
South Africa experienced a 45% rise in digital banking fraud cases in 2023, causing a 47% increase in financial losses.
In Kenya, a single debit card fraud incident cost a leading bank $2.1 million.
Biometric authentication, including Smile ID’s Enhanced SmartSelfie™, has become a vital defense. The company reported a 700% increase in authentication requests in 2024.
“Fraudsters constantly adapt, and so do we,” said Mark Straub, CEO of Smile ID. “Enhanced SmartSelfie™ gives businesses a secure and reliable tool to verify identities, reducing fraud while maintaining a seamless user experience.”
Unmatched Fraud Prevention
Enhanced SmartSelfie™’s ISO/IEC 30107-3:2023 Level 2 certification confirms its ability to withstand spoofing methods such as 3D masks and deepfakes. With a 0% penetration rate, it sets a new benchmark in fraud prevention.
Designed for Africa’s Unique Challenges
Smile ID tailors its solutions to Africa’s specific needs, addressing challenges such as low-bandwidth environments and budget-friendly Android devices. The platform also supports web and mobile integrations, continuous authentication, and advanced fraud-prevention algorithms to counter emerging threats.
Combining cutting-edge technology with accessibility, Enhanced SmartSelfie™ is redefining biometric authentication in Africa. By addressing rising fraud risks, it empowers businesses to operate securely while building trust in the digital era.
As fraud tactics evolve, Smile ID continues to set the standard in secure identity verification, providing a critical layer of defense for businesses and users alike.
Read more in Business Insider Africa
Listen to Mark Straub with Jenny Fielding on the Venture Everywhere podcast: 3, 2, 1… Smile ID! Now on Apple & Spotify and check out all our past episodes here!
