Frontex is developing a next-generation system to make checks of travel
and identity documents more effective. At its core are rigorous technical standards
for digital images that set a new quality benchmark for document-authenticity
checks and forgery detection.
The False and Authentic Documents Online (FADO) system is entering a new
era. For over two decades, FADO has been the EU’s hub for sharing images of
authentic and false documents, helping Member States combat document and
identity fraud. As forgeries grow more sophisticated, and the technologies used
to detect them evolve, the system must keep pace. That is exactly what is
happening with the creation of the new EBCG FADO (European Border and Coast
Guard False and Authentic Documents Online) system.
This is more than a technical refresh. By introducing harmonised
standards for capturing and storing digital images of documents, Frontex is
building a unified reference point for document-check practitioners: border
guards, forensic specialists and technology developers. The result is a common
language for document security across Europe and beyond. With everyone working
to the same benchmark, authorities can detect forgeries more effectively, while
developers can fine-tune tools and systems for operational use.
The Frontex Centre of Excellence for Combating Document Fraud, working
hand in hand with experts from Member States, has led the drafting of these
standards. Their work ensures that every image, whether of an authentic or
false passport, ID card or visa, meets strict quality requirements. This
guarantees that EBCG FADO users work with reliable, high-resolution data that
provides maximum operational value while fulfilling Frontex’s legal obligations
under the FADO Regulation.
Practically, the standards guide how digital document images should be
captured, processed and stored. This brings greater consistency across
countries using EBCG FADO, reducing the risk of inconsistencies or data gaps.
For frontline border guards, that translates into faster, more accurate
document and identity checks. For forensic experts, it provides a trustworthy
archive of reference materials. And for technology companies, it offers a clear
framework for designing next-generation tools.
Looking ahead, EBCG FADO will run on a new technical solution designed
around user needs. It will offer stronger interoperability, more efficient data
processing and a scalable architecture to support both existing and emerging
operational needs in document and identity checks and in combating document
fraud. In short, it is a system built for today, and ready for tomorrow’s
border-security challenges.
The transformation of FADO is anchored in EU legislation. With the entry
into force of Regulation (EU) 2020/493 (FADO Regulation) and Article 79 of
Regulation (EU) 2019/1896 (EBCG 2.0 Regulation), responsibility for managing
the system is transferring from the General Secretariat of the Council of the
EU to Frontex. This transition modernises governance and ensures the system can
adapt to current and future operational challenges.
The new standards for digital images of authentic and false documents in
the EBCG FADO system are publicly available in the document below.