Abstract: A method and system are described for illuminating a document, such as passports, identity documents or other types of documents, using illumination means under control of a processor to effectively control the angle and direction of light on such documents to expose optically variable devices such as holograms, intaglio printing and optically variable coating and inks contained in or on the documents and the material laminating the documents.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are disclosed for automatically identifying and validating a document, for validating the identity of a bearer of a document, for verifying that the bearer has authorization to participate in an activity represented by the document, and for comparing information on the document against information databases to determine if there are known concerns about the document or its bearer. A document type is narrowed by initially determining the size of the document, and is then identified from amongst a group of documents by looking for colors or other characteristics at specific locations on the document only until the document is identified. The order in which document locations are looked at is dependent upon a history of the types of documents that have been identified.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are disclosed for verifying the identity of applicants applying for documents, issued documents, and the identity of bearers of documents by obtaining information from the applicants, the documents and/or their bearers, identifying which of a plurality of secure, remote databases contain information needed to verifying the obtained information, comparing the obtained information with information stored in the identified database(s) to verifying the obtained information without disclosing database information to any persons, and providing an indication whether or not the obtained information matches the information from the identified database(s).

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are disclosed for verifying the identity of applicants applying for documents, issued documents, and the identity of bearers of documents by obtaining information from the applicants, the documents and/or their bearers, identifying which of a plurality of secure, remote databases contain information needed to verifying the obtained information, comparing the obtained information with information stored in the identified database(s) to verifying the obtained information without disclosing database information to any persons, and providing an indication whether or not the obtained information matches the information from the identified database(s).

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are disclosed for automatically identifying and validating a document, for validating the identity of a bearer of a document, for verifying that the bearer has authorization to participate in an activity represented by the document, and for comparing information on the document against information databases to determine if there are known concerns about the document or its bearer. A document type is narrowed by initially determining the size of the document, and is then identified from amongst a group of documents by looking for colors or other characteristics at specific locations on the document only until the document is identified. The order in which document locations are looked at is dependent upon a history of the types of documents that have been identified.