Facial recognition technology embedded into WA driver's licences last year checked more than 134,000 images. Fifteen matters were referred to police.
Now identity theft just got harder in Western Australia with the launch of a new generation of driving licences - brimming with security features.
Among those is an embedded holographic print that adds a touch of Star Trek to everyday driving.
But the best feature: No extra cost to drivers.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the upgrade was part of the state government's commitment to secure driver identity and to maintain international best-practice.
"Licence cards will now be printed with a new holographic overlay to make forgery, fraudulent activity and identity crime even more difficult," Mr Nalder said
The embedded 3D image features the state's floral emblem, the Kangaroo paw.
Mr Nalder said while the changes to the overlay appeared quite subtle, they would make a big impact.
"We've also included a number of other covert security features, but we're holding back information on those to protect their integrity," the minister said.
Most states in Australia now feature facial recognition technology in their driver's licences.
A Department of Transport spokeswoman said in 2014, DoT assessed 134,069 system-generated facial recognition matches and 15 matters had been referred to WA Police for investigation.
"Biometric inclusions like fingerprints have not been added to the card, but DoT will continue to monitor ways in which it can effectively protect the community and their identities," she said.
► Specialised background printing methods
► Sophisticated graphic design elements including guilloche patters (a decoarative and repetitive pattern)
► Deep laser printing of personalised information
► Laser-engraved cardholder's date of birth
► Each licence card will have a unique serial number and a unique barcode.
To avoid your identity being stolen and used in fraud, be careful with your personal information and this includes your driver licence information.
► Destroy your old drivers licence when the new one arrives. It may be a souvenir to you, but it is also a valuable piece of identity information to a criminal.
► Be cautious about handing over your licence card or providing the details on your licence. Make sure you understand how the information will be used and how securely it will be stored. Always question any need by a third party to scan or photocopy your learner permit or licence card.
► Make sure you have a secure lockable letter box that you clear regularly so that new mail can be delivered.
► If your learners permit or drivers licence is stolen, make sure you report it immediately and apply for a replacement.
► If a learner permit or drivers licence is no longer required because you have moved, or a relative is deceased, notify the Department of Transport so that the licence record can be cancelled. This will prevent the licence from being used illegally by someone else.
► You must notify a change of address on your licence within 14 days. It is also important that you change your mailing address as mail sent to your previous address may be left lying around making it easy picking for crooks.
► Apply for a credit card in your name.
► Open a bank or building society account in your name.
► Apply for other financial services in your name.
► Run up debts (e.g. Use your credit/debit card details to make purchase) or obtain a loan in your name.
► Apply for any benefits in your name (e.g. Housing benefit, new tax credits, income support, job seeker's allowance, child benefit).
► Apply for a driver's licence in your name.
► Register a vehicle in your name.
► Apply for job/employment in your name.
► Apply for a passport in your name.
► Apply for a mobile phone contract in your name.
