ETSI TS 119 461 standards and remote identity verification: a comprehensive guide for businesses

Remote identity verification: a strategic challenge

With the massive digitalization of financial services and online platforms, remote onboarding is becoming the norm. But this ease of access comes with significant risks: fraud, identity theft, and regulatory non-compliance.

Businesses must therefore verify the identity of their customers and partners remotely while complying with strict standards. The standard ETSI TS 119 461 v2.1.1 provides this technical framework and becomes the mandatory floor for all KYC and KYB activities.

ETSI TS 119 461 v2.1.1: what are we talking about?

This European standard specifies:

• Remote identity verification procedures for individuals and businesses
• Technical requirements for the security and integrity of digital documents
• The integration of biometrics and multi-factor authentication

It aims to create a minimum compliance floor for businesses operating in the EU and facilitating cross-border trade.

The main elements

Documentary authentication
Verification of the authenticity of official documents such as passports, identity cards or driving licenses. The standard recommends the use of electronic signatures and cryptographic evidence to ensure data integrity.

Biometric verification
Face/document correspondence, live presence detection and anti-spoiling. This layer of security makes pre-recorded photo or video fraud impossible.

Multi-factor verification
Integration of information from official documents, government databases and business registers to validate beneficial owners.

Security and data protection
Encryption of all sensitive data, RGPD compliance, secure archiving and complete auditability of verifications.

Interoperability and standardization
Enables KYC/KYB systems to exchange information securely and facilitates cross-border user mobility.

Practical implementation

Integration into the customer journey
Web and mobile portals for uploading documents and selfies with intuitive interface.

Intelligent automation
Automatic detection of anomalies by AI, real-time validation and alerts on suspicious cases.

Collaboration with the authorities
Cross-checking with public registers, sanctions bases and identification of beneficial owners.

Audit and traceability
Full history and standards-compliant digital evidence for audits and inspections.

The benefits for businesses

• Reducing the risks of fraud and money laundering
• Faster and smoother customer onboarding
• Compliance with European standards and regulatory floor
• Traceability and auditability to respond to regulators
• Better reputation and increased customer trust

Dataleon: support for ETSI standards

Dataleon integrates ETSI TS 119 461 v2.1.1 into its solutions:

• Automated and reliable document verification
• Advanced biometric control and proof of presence
• Anti-fraud AI analysis
• API integration for smooth and secure onboarding
• RGPD compliant archiving

Conclusion

ETSI TS 119 461 v2.1.1 becomes a An essential reference for any remote identity verification.
Businesses that adopt it secure their operations, reduce risks and offer modern, fast customer onboarding in accordance with European standards.