The main purpose of fake IDs is to get into clubs or bars making the use prominent in college and university, since alcohol is a large part of the post secondary experience.
The Process
Most people younger than 19 search social media until they find the right connection with someone they look alike to. The average price for two pieces of IDs is 40 dollars.
The majority of young people tend to look older so it’s hard to say whether someone is legal or not based off looks. When at the LCBO, they often ID if someone is 25 or younger since there is no way of knowing how old someone is based on looks.
Effectiveness
Depending on the establishment, it’s possible to get fake ID’s taken away. Sophie McCormick, a police foundations student at Fanshawe college describes how this makes minor impacts since “if the ID does get taken away, the owner can go to Service Ontario and get a new one because there’s no limit on how many IDs you can order.”
The Solution
If there were some sort of offence that is more applicable on youth, McCormick thinks this could minimize underage drinkers. As there is already a charge for impersonation and identity theft, this is a rare charge brought onto youth. If there was some sort of costly ticket, the majority of youth won’t be able to afford to risk the consequences.
