Frontex raises the bar in document security with new digital image standards

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.