The survey of 1,079 UK residents carried out online by ProperPR on behalf of ID Crypt on 14 July 2023 suggests that a digital identity platform from which the true identity of, for example, tradespeople who are entering the home, could be checked and confirmed would be welcomed by the general public.

The survey reveals that 64% of people are concerned about allowing strangers such as electricians, estate agents and plumbers into the home.

Sixty percent say it is concerning to think that such a person could, unbeknownst to the homeowner, have a criminal record, and 60% also say they are concerned that the person might not actually be qualified to perform the task they have been hired to do.

Despite this, only half of people say they ask for ID before letting someone in, and only a quarter ask for proof of employment.

Even if ID was provided, 59% say they would not be fully confident that it is legitimate because physical IDs can be easily faked.

As such, 76% would be in favour of digital IDs that provide a trustworthy record of a stranger’s identity and professional credentials, regardless of their job role or sector.

For 75% of people, this would provide greater peace of mind when allowing strangers into the home. 

auren Wilson-Smith, CEO and Founder of ID Crypt Global, commented: “When it comes to proving our identity, we need systems that are as infallible as possible. A verifiable digital identity would offer that reliability and would mean that more people can be more confident about who they are letting into their home. 

“We give so much information to online companies that, for most of us, there already exists a thorough online identity. Why not put this to good use in the real world as well as in the virtual world? Verifying a stranger’s identity is only the start of such applications, but it solves a genuine problem facing people every day.”

Full survey results can be viewed online here