ETH Zurich presents app against document forgery
At a time when the forgery of documents and goods is an increasing challenge, ETH Zurich has developed a ground-breaking solution. The Thenti app makes it possible to verify the authenticity of documents and even three-dimensional objects using an ordinary smartphone. A particular focus is on securing debt collection register extracts from the city of Zurich, which are now being made forgery-proof through a pilot project.
The application uses sophisticated technology to authenticate physical documents and objects. Deviations from the original are displayed on the screen in real time. The process is based on the scanning of a QR code and the subsequent analysis of the document by the app. The app compares the captured images with the original, which is stored in encrypted form on a server. It is particularly important to emphasise that the app only displays relevant deviations, without taking impairments such as coffee stains or wrinkles into account.
The Thenti app is the result of a collaboration between Martín Ochoa and David Basin, who founded the ETH spin-off Thenti. It combines digital authentication principles with the physical world, a step that was deemed necessary to do justice to the duality of digital and physical documents. The City of Zurich proved to be the ideal partner for the pilot project, as the authenticity of debt collection register extracts is of essential importance.
Extension to three-dimensional objects
The research work on which the app is based is funded by the Werner Siemens Foundation’s Centre for Digital Trust. The experience gained from the pilot project in Zurich will contribute to the final development of the solution. Thenti’s business model, which provides for free use of the app for certain checks, but also offers a subscription model, is interesting.
A future goal of the Thenti app is to extend its capabilities to three-dimensional objects, such as luxury watches. This would take the app to a new dimension of authenticity verification and offer added value for both consumers and manufacturers. The technology promises to be able to recognise even minor, individual features of products, providing effective protection against counterfeiting.
A contribution to security and confidence building
The development and implementation of the Thenti app represents significant progress in the fight against the counterfeiting of documents and goods. For professionals and managers in the property and location promotion sector, this technology offers a new level of security and trust. By connecting the digital and physical worlds, the Thenti app makes a valuable contribution to the integrity of documents and products.