There is an increasing need to be vigilant when taking steps to verify the identity of new clients. This applies to all dealings but is critically important in land transactions, irrespective of the transaction being electronic or paper based. We are familiar with the "look and feel" of New Zealand-issued passports and driver licences. Increasingly we are dealing with foreign nationals and are often unfamiliar with their documentation. When that document is in a foreign language the problems are compounded.

The United States website www.travel.state.gov/visa/reciprocity/index provides an index of countries and their government-issued identity documentation. It also says whether an official translated version of that documentation is available. Although the site does not show pictorial examples, each document is described thoroughly. A link to the country's embassy provides ready access to establishing the bona fides of the documentation should any doubt arise.

The key points are as follows:

• If you have any doubt about document authenticity check the site
• If you are still in doubt contact the embassy for clarification.

We are not expected to be experts in the detection of forged documentation, but we do need to be aware of the steps we can take to avoid being duped.

Ultimately, it is a judgement call and we need to balance efficiency and risk. If in doubt obtain more information and if you can't, don't act.

Duncan Terris