Video identification is a remote identity proofing method used during online onboarding. The user joins a live video session, shows an identity document, and answers verification prompts while an operator or automated system checks that the person and document match. It is commonly used when a service needs stronger assurance than a simple password, but cannot rely on an in-person visit.
In cyber security, video identification matters because it becomes part of the trust chain for account creation, SIM or eSIM activation, and other high-risk enrollments. If the process is weak, attackers may try forged documents, replayed recordings, deepfakes, or social engineering to pass verification and gain access. Defenses include liveness checks, secure session handling, document validation, fraud scoring, and manual review for exceptions. In practice, video identification is not just a convenience feature; it is an anti-fraud control that helps prevent identity misuse at the point where digital services begin.