Alabama is using a new identity protection system to help prevent the theft of tax refunds.

The Alabama Department of Revenue is implementing a program called eID. It’s an application using facial recognition software to compare cellphone selfies against photos in the state’s driver license database. The developers say the system creates a system to ensure that only the correct taxpayer can claim a refund.  Taxpayers who use the Alabama eID app will also receive priority processing of their refund.

The state conducted a pilot program last year, and it’s rolling out the free program to everyone this year. The Revenue Department says it’s the first in the nation to use such a statewide system.

The Alabama eID app is available for download in Apple’s App Store and in the Google Play store for Android users.

 

Credit:  The Associated Press

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