The state of New York is planning to take action this summer to combat the use of fake identification at concert venues

Darien, New York – In musical venues located all around the state of New York, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is making an effort to crack down on the spread of bogus identities.

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, it seized nearly 400 fraudulent identification documents in the previous year. Because it is a criminal offense, those who are caught in the act may be subject to severe punishments.

“They want to make sure that everyone who’s at a concert venue or bar or restaurant is there for the right reasons,” said Lisa Koumjian, the DMV’s deputy commissioner.

In light of the fact that the technology behind fake identification has advanced over the years, the state is taking preventative measures to ensure that legal identification is as difficult to replicate as feasible.

“Embedded in the physical card are many security features that help distinguish it from fraudulent, fake IDs, things that have been tampered with or bought or sold through illegal means,” Koumjian said.

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) stated that the details on the enforcement of underage drinking are the greatest in class, even if your identification appears to be genuine.

“They use various tools and techniques, including infrared lights and scanners and different technology, to be able to spot fakes,” Koumjian said.

You risk receiving a ticket and having your driver’s license suspended or taken away for a period of at least ninety days if you are detected with a fraudulent identification document.

Buying phony identification cards puts you at risk of having your identity stolen as well.

“A lot of times, when someone is buying a fake ID, they’re doing it through people who are not very trustworthy,” said Koumjian. “They may be providing a lot of their own personal and sensitive information.”

For people who are planning to carry phony identification to concerts this summer, Koumjian has a warning for them.

“If you have a fake, leave it at home,” she said. “We don’t want you to get caught. We don’t want you to use it. We want you to be safe.”