The CheapID system combines three core technologies:

Public Key Cryptography

Secures each CheapID Identity Card against forgery and improper use.

2D Bar Codes

Carry the digital data of the CheapID card in a form that can be printed on a standard printer, and read with a computer or, soon, a camera phone.

Biometrics

Securely identify a person even when all other evidence of their identity is lost in the chaos of a war or a natural disaster.