In the United States, the legalization of cannabis has seen a significant step forward, which has led to a boom in the cannabis industry. Today, cannabis dispensing is legal in 37 states. Sixteen states, including Washington, D.C., now allow adult-use cannabis markets.
Vendors must verify their consumer’s age to ensure legal sales and purchases of cannabis products. Only individuals 21 years old and older can legally purchase cannabis products. Underage buyers of marijuana will be subject to penalties. Permitted shops cannot sell cannabis to illicit purchasers, as the vendor’s license could be suspended or revoked.
As the legal market is expanding, licensed sellers must employ systems to verify the age of their customers accurately. They also have to adhere to state laws, regardless of whether they sell products online or via personal transactions.
Age verification depended on whether a product was bought online or in a dispensary. Only business owners use self-reporting online, where customers interact with a popup screen asking for their date and birth.
Although internet transactions can be convenient, they do not provide enough proof of identity or age. Information provided can be altered and used illegally. Dispensaries should implement an advanced ID authentication system to accurately verify a buyer’s age.
Biometric technology is becoming more critical as cyber security issues become more complex. The cannabis industry must use robust digital identification and automated ID document authentication systems to verify a customer’s identity and age. These technologies can also verify the legitimacy of IDs and other identification documents.
As the acceptance of cannabis products for recreation and medical treatments grows, efficient age verification solutions are paramount for vendors to prevent minors from buying the goods. Consequently, the reliance on ineffective age verification systems can be a risk for the industry in the long run.
For more information about the need for a trusted age verification solution for cannabis sales, here is an infographic provided by authID.
