Thread by @josephfcox

New: inside the underground site where "neural networks" churn out fake IDs
- I tested, made two IDs in minutes
- used one to successfully bypass the identity verification check on a cryptocurrency exchange
- massive implications for crime, cybersecurity
404media.co/inside-the-und…

Here's the process of me successfully bypassing the identity verification on OKX, a cryptocurrency exchange I've noticed is being used by criminals
- Asks for passport
- I took photo of my fake British passport I made earlier (didn't need in hand)
404media.co/inside-the-und…

OKX's system said it was reviewing my identity. Then it approved it. There you go: successfully made a cryptocurrency account with a fake name, fake ID. The face is mine (didn't want to implicate innocent person) but site says its going to launch AI faces 404media.co/inside-the-und…

Here are some of the other IDs this service has created. The underlying technology is a bit hazy, but regardless the result is highly convincing photos of fake IDs in minutes for people who have no technical skill 404media.co/inside-the-und…

OKX uses a company called Jumio for its ID verification. When I first asked them about these sorts of sites, they said the below. Then when I said I just bypassed OKX using a fake ID, they said they couldn't comment much furthr 404media.co/inside-the-und…

The British passport I used to bypass identity verification worked first time. I had no issues with it whatsoever. Only reason I didn't use the California license was because OKX doesn't accept US IDs (doesn't have to deal with US regulation) 404media.co/inside-the-und…

Update: @RonWyden comments on our investigation into neural networks + fake IDs. Says it shows the need for secure, authenticated IDs 404media.co/inside-the-und…

Here is the panel for creating your own fake ID in minutes. Enter whatever data you want, or use some of the randomise buttons. Upload a photo or use one the system has. Hit generate. 404media.co/inside-the-und…

Updated with a statement from OKX on us using an underground service which generates photos of fake IDs, and using that to bypass their identity verification 404media.co/inside-the-und…