The Increasing Threat of Fake IDs Around Independence Day

Each year, the U.S. celebrates Independence Day, but alongside the fireworks and festivities, the hospitality industry faces a growing threat: a sharp increase in fake ID usage. According to IDScan.net’s analysis of more than 40 million ID scans nationwide, Independence Day sees a 25-percent spike in underage patrons attempting to enter age-restricted venues using fraudulent identification.  

Independence Day has become an increased security and compliance risk where venues often experience overwhelming crowds, limited security staff, and a swarm of underage partygoers attempting to bypass age restrictions. This creates the perfect window for those yet to meet the legal drinking age to slip through the cracks, exposing venues to legal liability and putting their reputations at risk. 

With the right combination of technology and training, hospitality operators can protect themselves while also remaining compliant, even on one of the busiest nights of the year. 

Independence Day and the Rising Fake ID Challenge

Independence Day means college students have returned home, high school teens have more freedom post-graduation, and the increased volume of footfall can overwhelm even the most seasoned staff. 

Developments in AI and high-resolution printing enable underage individuals to create highly realistic, region-specific scannable IDs. These increasingly sophisticated counterfeits can bypass manual inspection and easily deceive basic scanning devices.  

For venue owners, even one drink served to a minor can have long-lasting effects on the business. Fines, suspended liquor licenses, increased insurance costs, and even lawsuits are all very real threats facing the industry, not just on Independence Day but year-round. Take the example of SugarHouse Pub in Salt Lake City, where in late 2024, nearly 200 underage patrons, including some as young as 17, were caught using fraudulent IDs despite the venue’s use of state-approved scanning technology. The bar faced a 10-day alcohol license suspension and temporary closure, illustrating how sophisticated fake IDs and operational pressures can quickly lead to serious legal and financial consequences. 

AI is raising the bar for fake ID detection 

Artificial intelligence and easy accessibility online have altered fake IDs into highly convincing, scannable documents. Today’s counterfeit IDs often replicate complex security features, including holograms, microprinting, and region-specific barcodes that can very easily pass visual inspection and manual checks. Without AI-powered verification tools, even experienced staff can struggle to identify these synthetic IDs.  

Preparing today for a safer tomorrow

To protect their business and customers, venues should implement a layered approach that combines technology and operational changes in daily activity. Staff training is crucial to help employees recognize behavioral red flags and subtle ID irregularities and inconsistencies, which can be just as important as spotting any physical document flaws. Using advanced ID scanners that automatically verify age and read barcode data, enhanced by AI to detect synthetic IDs in real time adds an increased layer of defense. Venues can explore a range of scanning technologies designed specifically for bars and hospitality settings to strengthen compliance and security.

Venues should also take note of Texas’s recent law mandating electronic ID scanning in bars and liquor stores; this is an action that may set a precedent for nationwide reform. Clear signage outlining ID policies acts as a deterrent, while extra door staff or security during high-traffic holidays like Independence Day can ensure thorough, unrushed ID checks. 

Proactive measures must be taken to protect businesses from the growing threat of fake IDs. The right combination of tools, training, and processes not only protects revenue and staff but also preserves the brand's reputation. Preparing thoroughly for Independence Day sets a strong foundation for year-round caution, helping venues stay secure well into the future.