Is TrustReq's remote identity verification tool compliant with the Law Society of Ontario?

According to the LSO, effective January 1, 2024, lawyers and paralegals who choose to verify the identity of an individual using video conferencing technology or other forms of virtual communication are required to have a process or method to authenticate the individual’s government-issued photo identification document. Verifying identity by only viewing an individual and their identity document virtually is not permitted.

Not only are remote identity verifications (IDVs) on TrustReq compliant with the Law Society of Ontario's virtual verification with authentication methods, we're confident that our systems actually far exceed the minimum requirements set out by the LSO.

The LSO's guidelines emphasize the importance of using technology to authenticate the government-issued photo identification document to ensure it is genuine. This involves asking the individual to scan their ID using a mobile phone or electronic device and using technology to compare the features of the ID against known characteristics, security features, or markers. This step is crucial in confirming that the document is authentic as issued by the government. TrustReq's remote IDV tool incorporates these requirements by leveraging advanced technology by integrating with our friends over at Plaid to thoroughly verify the authenticity of identification documents.

Plaid's technology is world renowned for its ability to perform comprehensive checks on identification documents. Plaid is certified in internationally-recognized security standards, like ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and is SSAE18 SOC 2 compliant.

By integrating with Plaid, we use high-resolution imaging and biometric verification to ensure that the ID presented is both valid and current. This includes comparing the ID's features against known templates and security markers such as holograms, barcodes, and embedded electronic chips. Additionally, Plaid's system can perform biometric facial recognition to match the individual's face with the photo on the ID, ensuring a high level of accuracy and security.

In line with the LSO's requirement that all documents used for verification purposes be authentic, valid, and current, TrustReq ensures that every ID verification process includes steps to confirm these aspects. Our system not only authenticates the document but also verifies its validity and currency by comparing it with up-to-date government records and databases. This dual-layered approach significantly reduces the risk of fraud, including synthetic identity theft, which is a growing concern post-COVID pandemic.

Moreover, TrustReq's tool provides a detailed audit trail for every verification attempt, allowing lawyers and paralegals to review and document the verification process comprehensively. This feature aligns with the LSO's emphasis on thorough recordkeeping and helps manage risks associated with identity fraud and money laundering.

Our adherence to the DIACC's (Digital Identification and Authentication Council of Canada) standards further demonstrates our commitment to security and compliance. The DIACC provides a directory of technology products that meet stringent authentication requirements, and TrustReq’s use of Plaid’s technology is consistent with these high standards.

TrustReq's remote identity verification tool not only complies with the LSO’s requirements for virtual verification with authentication but exceeds them by employing state-of-the-art technology to ensure the highest levels of security and accuracy. This makes TrustReq a reliable and compliant choice for lawyers and paralegals in Ontario who need to verify identities remotely.