Online identification... Between video chat, digital signature, security and credit... It's not easy to find your way around. Let us explain.
What is it exactly?
In most transactions that require the signing of a contract, it is mandatory to authenticate the signatories. We therefore travel with our identity document and a notary, your bank referent or any other accredited person certifies that you are indeed the signatory authorized to enter into the matter contractually.
That was before. Or rather, it will soon be ancient history. Various industries, with the validation of the competent authorities, already have tools that allow you to be authenticated as a signatory remotely. This is called online identification. Your digital signature completes the process.
In concrete terms, when it is provided for by the service provider with whom you contract a transaction (purchase, credit, loan and others), all you have to do is follow an online procedure on your computer, bring an identity document and, depending on the various solutions, use your camera or your personal guide on the other side of the screen, to be identified without having to travel.
Is this already a reality?
Absolutely. Technological progress varies from country to country, but Switzerland already offers various solutions for identifying oneself online and signing contractual documents digitally.
In particular, the financial sector has requested the implementation of these tools to facilitate the processing of files such as applications for loans, mortgages or credits. Both for private individuals and companies.
Some examples we can mention: BANK-now, Revolut, Bonus Card, and many others.
Why not just do this in person?
That's a great question. There's nothing stopping it. After all, when it comes to technology, it's very often a personal choice to take advantage of it, or not, depending on one's preferences and needs.
If you are likely to want to establish contact and you need to meet your interlocutor in person, whether it is your advisor, your banker or any other service provider... A physical solution is still possible.
However, we have to admit it... Rather, the number of 'customer' counters and other meeting places is decreasing, and new generations of customers are avid users of digital technologies. So take advantage of it because you probably won't have a choice tomorrow.
The advantages?
You save time, that's for sure. It takes about fifteen minutes.
The service is available 24/7, not bad.
Your data is secure because, after all, a piece of paper is not what guarantees the protection of your personal data.
These online services are available in French, German, Italian and English. Nice.
Is it safe?
Yes. It should be noted that any identification process, particularly in the context of financial and contractual relationships, is regulated by public authorities such as FINMA.
Data security, especially in Switzerland, is a priority.
Providers active in the field (e.g. Swisscom) owe their success to their ability to guarantee data protection. Otherwise, they would lose their legitimacy and therefore their customers.
This is why this type of process, especially for contracting a loan application, requires two or even three 'layers' of protection. You will need to identify yourself via various sources using various codes or documents.
At the end of the day, the biggest security risk is us, the users. Passwords that are too simple, no security updates made, poorly protected equipment, actions taken in public places, transmission of data on unsecured platforms, etc. So let us always remain vigilant.
What are my options?
If we take the example of contractual transactions with banks or other financial service providers, it all depends on the tools and solutions offered by them.
In some cases, virtual identification and digital signature are not offered.
For some, identification via 'video chat' is provided. So it's remotely via your computer or smartphone but you'll still be guided by an agent on your screen.
For others, the 'video chat' is optional and you can either have a secure account previously set up or be digitally and automatically identified by a software of the provider using your camera; without the intervention of an agent.
In any case, you will need:
- A computer, tablet or smartphone with an internet connection
- Proof of identity
- A camera
And of course, a contact via form or during an exchange with the service provider as a prerequisite for your approach; The purpose of your identification is to receive a contract in order to sign it and, in the context of a loan, to receive the funds when your file is accepted.
And what about Milenia?
It's very simple, Milenia is there. As a leading financing platform in Switzerland, we are no stranger to technology. Quite the opposite.
Above all, we care about providing the most up-to-date solutions in the industry. This desire is reflected in the careful choice of our banking partners.
When we offer you the best credit terms, the final solution selected will be contracted. If you opt for a digital ID, depending on the banking partner you choose, you will receive a link allowing you to do so. Easy.
Also, true to our 0 fees and 0 commitment policy, it's free. This is not the case everywhere, but it is the case here!
I'd like to know more.
We offer technological solutions for your personal loan application, but we remain fundamentally human in our DNA.
Contact us via email, our website, WhatsApp or simply by phone. We're here to help!