On December 1, 2025, the UK Government officially implemented the Digital Verification Services (DVS) measures under the Data (Use and Access) Act. This significant development marks a pivotal step toward establishing a statutory framework for digital identity verification, instilling greater confidence in secure and privacy-preserving identity checks for both individuals and organisations.
Understanding the New DVS Framework
The new DVS framework provides a clear legal basis for digital verification services, allowing them to operate with the same level of confidence as traditional paper-based checks. This shift is set to transform the landscape of identity verification across various sectors.
One of the key aspects of the Act is the establishment of a statutory framework that solidifies the legal standing of digital verification. Companies offering DVS can now achieve certification against stringent government standards set by the Office for Digital Identity and Attributes (OfDIA). Successful providers will receive a “trust mark,” making it easier for businesses to identify reliable, secure, and compliant services. Additionally, a publicly available register of all certified DVS providers is being created, enhancing transparency and accountability in the market.
While the use of digital IDs remains mostly voluntary for private sector interactions, certain high-stakes applications are becoming mandatory. For instance, a national digital ID scheme is planned to be mandatory for proving a person’s Right to Work in the UK, and identity verification for all new and existing company directors is also required, as of November 18, 2025. The framework encourages data minimisation practices, allowing digital IDs to share only necessary information without revealing full underlying data, thereby enhancing privacy.
The Impact of DVS on Background Checks
The impact of these new DVS requirements on background screening is profound. The measures offer a secure, official digital alternative to traditional manual checks, fundamentally changing how organisations approach identity verification. Enhanced security measures are crucial in combating identity fraud, especially as traditional manual checks are increasingly susceptible to forged documents. The DVS framework employs advanced Identity Document Validation Technology (IDVT) that scans document security features and utilises biometric facial recognition with “liveness” detection to ensure the authenticity of the individual.
Automating the identity verification process reduces the risk of human error, leading to more accurate data collection. By verifying a candidate’s identity upfront, organisations can mitigate the significant risks associated with hiring individuals under false identities.
The efficiency of the hiring process is also improved. Digital checks can return verification results in minutes, significantly reducing time-to-hire. This is particularly beneficial for remote and hybrid working models, as DVS allows identity checks to be completed securely from anywhere, eliminating the need for in-person document inspections. The user-friendly process, which involves uploading documents and a selfie via a smartphone app, offers a seamless experience for candidates.
Supporting Compliance with DVS
From a compliance perspective, the new DVS framework simplifies adherence to regulations while providing robust legal grounding for organisations engaged in background screening. Certified DVS providers operate within the official UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework, which establishes clear standards and guidelines for identity verification processes. This framework ensures that organisations can confidently rely on certified providers to conduct Right to Work and DBS checks in a manner that meets legal requirements.
As part of this transition, the UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework scheme is being effectively replaced and upgraded to the new DVS (Digital Verification Service). This upgrade enhances the security and efficiency of identity verification processes, ensuring that organisations can access more streamlined and reliable methods for verifying the identities of candidates. The DVS not only improves the user experience but also strengthens the integrity of the verification process, making it easier for organisations to comply with regulatory standards while safeguarding sensitive information. By adopting the DVS, organisations can better mitigate the risks against identity fraud and help support their compliance requirements in terms of background screening.
Utilising a certified DVS for Right to Work checksmay be particularly advantageous for employers, as it provides a “statutory excuse” against civil penalties in the event of illegal working. This means that if an employer has conducted the necessary checks through a certified DVS and has verified a candidate’s right to work, they mitigate the risks of potential fines or legal repercussions associated with employing individuals who do not have the legal right to work in the UK. This aspect of the DVS framework not only demonstrates robust due diligence on the part of employers but also fosters a culture of compliance within organisations.
Moreover, the digital services offered by certified DVS providers automatically generate and securely store verifiable, auditable records of checks conducted. This capability is crucial for compliance management, as it allows organisations to maintain accurate records that can be easily accessed and reviewed during audits or inspections. The retention of these records for the required period ensures that employers may help demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.
By leveraging certified DVS solutions, employers can navigate the complexities of identity verification, ensuring that they meet legal obligations while protecting their business interests.
Guiding Organisations Toward DVS Implementation
As organisations adapt to the new DVS measures outlined in the Data Act, it is essential to take proactive steps to support compliance and optimise the background screening process. Here are some suggestions for steps to take.
Step 1: Process Assessment
First, organisations should assess their current background screening processes to identify areas that can be enhanced through digital verification. This evaluation will help determine how the DVS framework can be integrated into existing practices.
Step 2: Partner Selection
Engaging with certified DVS providers is crucial, as they offer the necessary tools and expertise to navigate the new regulatory landscape. By partnering with a provider that operates within the UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework, organisations can ensure compliance with legal standards. Implementing digital verification solutions may streamline the hiring process, reduce time-to-hire, and enhance the candidate experience. Prioritising the use of certified DVS for Right to Work and DBS checks allows organisations to leverage the benefits of the statutory excuse and demonstrate robust due diligence.
Step 3: Staff Training
Training staff on new procedures is also vital to maximise the effectiveness of digital verification processes. Investing in training for HR and compliance teams ensures that staff are well-versed in the new requirements and can effectively utilise the digital tools available. Additionally, establishing a system for monitoring compliance and maintaining audit trails is essential. Organisations should regularly review their background screening practices to ensure adherence to regulations and proactively address any potential issues.
Closing Thoughts
At First Advantage, we are uniquely positioned to support organisations through this transition. Our Identity Solutions through our certified partners are specifically designed to meet the new standards set forth by the DVS framework, ensuring seamless and compliant onboarding. With our experience in background screening, we provide organisations with the tools they need to enhance their hiring processes while mitigating the risks in terms of compliance.
By choosing First Advantage as your provider, you gain access to a suite of background screening solutions that not only streamline the verification process but also help address your compliance requirements. Our services ensure that you can consider the complexities of digital identity verification.
If you’d like to learn more about our background screening solutions and how they can enhance your hiring process, please click here.
