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Mastering Ethiopia’s Identity Verification: A Merchant's Guide with Shufti
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Got it Resend EmailUnderstanding the Challenges of Ethiopian Identity Documents
Effective identity verification in Ethiopia requires a comprehensive approach due to the distinct characteristics and complexities of Ethiopia identity documents. Shufti’s OCR and verification technology is specifically designed to address these challenges and provide accurate, efficient, and reliable identity verification solutions.
In this section, we will discuss the various challenges associated with verifying Ethiopian identity documents, highlighting how our technology overcomes these hurdles to ensure seamless verification.
1. Multilingual Documents
Ethiopia is a linguistically diverse nation, which adds complexity to identity verification. While Amharic is the official language, many Ethiopians speak languages such as Oromo, Tigrinya, and Somali, each with unique linguistic features.
Ethiopia’s languages use different scripts, primarily the Ge'ez script for Amharic and Tigrinya, and the Latin script for Oromo and Somali. For Example, An Amharic national ID might use the Ge'ez script (e.g., ሀ for "ha"), while an Oromo document could be in Latin (e.g., "Haile" in Oromo instead of ሀሌ in Amharic).
Ethiopian documents, such as passports, include both Amharic (Ge'ez script) and English (Latin script). This format is challenging for OCR systems that need to switch between different scripts while ensuring accurate data extraction.
2. Complex Script with Vowel Modifications
The Ge'ez script, used for Amharic, features a syllabic writing system where each base consonant is combined with one of seven vowels. This means a single character can appear in multiple forms, depending on the vowel that follows. For example, a consonant like ሀ (ha) changes its form based on the vowel.
ሀ = ha
ሁ = hu
ሂ = hi
ሃ = ha (another variation)
ሄ = he
Example: The name "Hana" could appear as ሃና in one document, while a slight spelling variation like "Hanna" might appear as ሀና. OCR systems need to accurately recognize these subtle differences to prevent misinterpretation.
3. Variation in Document Formats
Ethiopian identity documents are not always standardized across regions. Some older documents, especially those issued in rural areas, might have regional variations in design, format, or security features, adding another layer of complexity for OCR systems.
Example: A driver's license from Bahir Dar might look different in layout and font as compared to the one issued in Addis Ababa, even though both serve the same purpose.
4. Dual DOB Systems - Calendar Differences
Ethiopian identity documents are not always standardized across regions. Some older documents, especially those issued in rural areas, might have regional variations in design, format, or security features, adding another layer of complexity for OCR systems.
Example: A driver's license from Bahir Dar might look different in layout and font as compared to the one issued in Addis Ababa, even though both serve the same purpose.
5. Document Wear and Tear
Wear and tear is a significant challenge in the verification of identity documents in Ethiopia, particularly for older or frequently used cards. This issue can affect the legibility and integrity of essential identification documents.
Ethiopian driver's licenses and Addis Ababa city resident card, especially older versions, often show signs of wear due to regular use. Handwritten details and security features can become illegible, complicating the verification process. Signs of wear, such as fading text or scratches, can hinder the ability of verification systems to accurately read and interpret information.
6. Handwritten Documents
The verification of handwritten documents poses unique challenges in Ethiopia, particularly for identity verification processes. Many official documents, such as older national ID cards, driver's licenses, and local residency cards, may contain handwritten information, which can complicate data extraction and accuracy.
Variability in handwriting: Handwriting styles can vary significantly among individuals, leading to inconsistencies that traditional OCR systems may struggle to interpret. This variability can result in errors in name recognition, date of birth, and other critical details.
Older documents: Many older identity documents feature handwritten elements, which may be less legible due to wear and tear over time. This further complicates the verification process, as degraded handwriting can hinder accurate data capture.
Cultural naming conventions: In Ethiopia, names may include complex structures and variations that can be handwritten differently. This complexity can make it challenging for OCR systems to accurately parse and verify names.v
A Merchant’s Guide to Identity Verification in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, merchants face challenges when verifying identity documents such as ID cards, passports, and driver's licenses. To streamline the verification process and assist merchants during integration, Shufti offers two Verification Modes: Onsite Verification Mode and Offsite Verification Mode — these modes allow merchants to choose the most appropriate approach based on their specific use cases and requirements. Each mode comes with its own considerations, including the type of document being verified, the verification method, and the unique challenges merchants may encounter.
Download the Top 10 Most Difficult Countries for Identity Verification
Download full report1. Verification Modes
Onsite Verification
The onsite verification process by Shufti provides an intuitive and direct interaction for end users through an advanced iFrame/Verify component. This user-centric approach enables individuals to submit required verification proofs, such as ID and address documents, while receiving real-time guidance throughout the verification process. Upon completion, the verification results are accessible to clients via the comprehensive Back Office portal or can be delivered through an API response, ensuring efficient access to vital information.
Offsite Verification
The offsite verification process by Shufti is designed for efficiency and simplicity. In this mode, clients gather the necessary verification data from end users and submit it directly to Shufti for verification. The results are accessible through the Back Office portal or an API response, allowing for streamlined access to critical information.
2. Document Types Selection
In Ethiopia, various identity documents serve different purposes and offer varying levels of security and verification capabilities. Here's a brief overview of some of the key identification documents and their features:
ID Card: Indian documents that usually fall under the category of ID Cards include:
National ID Card: The Ethiopian National ID card is a primary identification document for citizens, essential for accessing various services and participating in official processes. Handwritten information on older versions can complicate verification processes, requiring advanced OCR technology.
Addis Ababa City Resident Card: Specifically issued to residents of Addis Ababa, this card serves as proof of residence and identity. The card may have varying security features and older versions could include handwritten details, complicating automated verification.
Driver's License: Ethiopian driver's licenses are widely recognized and serve as valid identification in various contexts.
Hayyama_Driver's License: Issued in regional areas, may vary in design and security features, often containing handwritten details that complicate verification.
Addis Ababa Driver's License: Specifically for residents of Addis Ababa, typically adheres to more standardized security features. However, older versions may still include handwritten elements.
Passports: Ethiopian passports are vital for international travel and contain biometric data. Secure document featuring personal and issuance details, with both Amharic and English text. Widely accepted for KYC processes, providing high-level verification due to international standards.
3. Document Type Preference
and Performance
Different types of Ethiopian identity documents yield varying success rates in verification
ID Card
ID Card’s clear, bilingual layout enhances OCR processing, allowing Shufti’s advanced features to provide superior reading and verification compared to competitors.
Format: E-document, physical document, handwritten (older versions)
Extraction Parameters: Name, date of birth, issue date, document number, expiry date, nationality
Driver's License
Ethiopian driver's licenses are widely recognized and serve as valid identification in various contexts.
Format: Physical document, handwritten (older versions)
Extraction Parameters: Name, date of birth, issue date, document number, expiry date, nationality
Passport
Ethiopian Passport’s complex security features, such as holograms and microtext, challenge OCR technology. Shufti’s advanced OCR systems are fine-tuned to accurately capture and verify all key details, ensuring fast and reliable processing.
Format: Physical document
Extraction Parameters: Name, date of birth, issue date, document number, expiry date, nationality
4. Preferred Document for Identity Verification
At Shufti, we recognize the Ethiopian national ID card as preferred documents for identity verification in Ethiopia. The national ID card, with its essential role across sectors, is the leading choice, while the passport is ideal for high-security verifications. Our advanced OCR technology is optimized to handle the unique features of these documents, ensuring quick and accurate data extraction.
Verification Settings
1. Verification Mode (Onsite vs. Offsite)
Onsite verification is recommended in Ethiopia due to its higher accuracy and greater control over the verification process. This is especially important in a market where identity fraud can be a concern. Onsite methods can leverage biometric and AI-driven technologies to ensure authenticity and reliability.
2. Data Extraction
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology is crucial in Ethiopia to accurately extract data from identity documents, especially those containing complex scripts and handwritten information. Advanced OCR systems must handle the unique characteristics of Ethiopian scripts and be capable of recognizing both Gregorian and Ethiopian calendar dates.
3. Identity Document’s Backside Proof
Ethiopian identity documents often contain critical information on both the front and back. It is recommended that users submit both sides of the document to ensure comprehensive verification. The backside may include vital details such as addresses, expiry dates, and additional identifiers.
4. Verification Settings
With the introduction of electronic identification cards (E-ID) in Ethiopia, merchants can enhance their verification processes by allowing the submission of electronic documents. This feature facilitates a more efficient and secure identity verification experience. Merchants can Allow e-documents, allowing users to provide their electronic identification documents directly for verification. By incorporating e-documents into the verification settings, merchants can streamline their operations while improving the accuracy and security of identity verifications in Ethiopia.
5. Real-Time Proof Capture Vs. Proof Upload
Ethiopian identity documents can be verified through two flexible proof methods: real-time proof capture and proof upload, giving users the option to choose their preferred method based on convenience and accessibility.
Real-Time Proof Capture
With Shufti’s advanced auto-capture technology, capturing identity proofs in real-time ensures a smooth, efficient, and accurate verification process. This feature automatically detects the document and captures it without requiring user intervention, making it one of the fastest and most reliable options for verifying physical documents.
Proof Upload
Users also have the option to upload pre-captured images of the identity documents. The upload process is seamless, allowing documents to be verified hassle-free. This is ideal for users who already have pre-captured images of their identity documents and prefer a straightforward upload and verification process.
Merchants can enable Allow Online (real-time proof capture) and Allow Offline (proof upload) options available in the Verification setting Tab. By offering both real-time capture and proof upload, Shufti ensures flexibility, providing the best user experience regardless of whether physical or electronic documents are being verified.
Download the Top 10 Most Difficult Countries for Identity Verification
Download full reportClick on a country to see the unique requirements that must be addressed.
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