UK police deploy ITL age estimation devices to help retailers meet alcohol rules

While there are lingering questions about the UK government’s update to the Mandatory Licensing Conditions, allowing for the use of digital ID to prove age when buying alcohol, providers are coming to the table prepared. A release from Innovative Technology (ITL) says the biometrics provider is working with local police teams in Cumbria and Lancashire to provide its MyCheckr and MyCheckrMini age estimation technology to “both the night time economy and off licences to support with compliance.”

If a business fails a test purchase, police will give them both age estimation devices, in hopes they can achieve compliance and avoid closure.

Andy Bullock, ITL’s senior business development manager for the UK market, describes MyCheckr as a standalone hardware device that supports age checks for both age-restricted purchases and entry to hospitality venues. “With a built-in camera and screen, convenience stores and 18+ venues can simply add age verification without any systems integration,” Bullock says. (The more compact MyCheckrMini comes without the screen feature.)

“Our tech is highly accurate and because no images or data are stored customers can be sure that their privacy is protected. It’s proving to be a useful guide for staff to assist with the sometimes difficult task of asking a customer for ID and can often help avoid confrontation.”

MyCheckr mini shines on nighttime streets

The release quotes Scott Adams, a harm reduction sergeant with Cumberland NPT, who says ITL’s devices have given them “a clear age verification plan.”

“We are using the mini device in the night time economy and customers are taking a keen interest,” he says. “It’s helping Police Officers engage in conversations and break down barriers. Customers are embracing the technology too, they are keen to see if they pass and are supportive, producing identification when requested.”

Scott also says businesses that have been offered MyCheckr as a compliance tool after failing test purchases have been receptive, particularly once they compare the cost of the device against persistent fines. He says the device provides “robust and easy to use” age assurance which “removes human error and develops best practice for venues.”

Article Topics

biometric age estimation  |  Innovative Technology  |  law enforcement  |  retail biometrics  |  UK age verification