New IDA Member from Newlands touches on an important point when he asks about security issues, especially at this time of the year.

SuperSpark replies:

Dear New IDA Member,

One of the most important safety aids is that of an ultraviolet light.

An ultraviolet light helps you, sales people and F&I consultants to detect possible fraudulent documents, such as eNaTIS documents, bank notes, ID documents (including the new Smart ID Card) and driving licences.

So, let’s look at some safety features on an eNaTIS document:

• The document is issued without any alterations or erasures.
• Holding it so that a bright light shines from behind the document, a triangle with the letters RSA in each corner of the triangle is visible.
• Holding it under a UV light, certain patterns on the document will light up.
• Always make sure of the printed font on the paper.
• The barcode must be clearly visible.

• The picture of the ID holder is pasted on documents issued before 1 November 2010. It is digitally printed on the newer document.
• The ID stitching thread is visible under the UV light
• The Coat of Arms on page one will lit up under the UV light.
• On the smart ID card the text “ID” is in braille.
• There is an invisible design printed as a rainbow image on the smart card and can only be viewed when under the UV light.

• The words SOUTH AFRICA are printed across the card.
• The letters ZA are embossed on the card, top-middle/bottom/left/right.
• The owner’s signature must be on the front of the card (you can always compare this signature with the one on your documentation).
• It should raise a concern If the card lights up under a UV light.
• A driving licence is only valid for five years.
• There are five small Protea flowers across the middle of the back of the card.