Although both checks help you confirm identity, they:
Serve different primary purposes, and
Sit in different parts of your process.
Digital Identity Verification
Is specific to DBS checks.
Replaces or reduces the need for manual ID document checking.
Is part of the DBS identity verification route, supporting:
Basic
Standard
Enhanced DBS applications
You use Digital Identity Verification to:
Satisfy DBS identity requirements more quickly and efficiently.
Identity Checks
Are focused on giving you extra assurance about who someone is.
Verify identity by cross‑checking data against credit and public records, not just documents.
Are not used as part of the DBS process itself.
Are especially useful:
Alongside DBS checks, to confirm that DBS results match the correct individual
As part of broader pre‑employment screening and fraud prevention
In summary:
Digital Identity Verification = Digital replacement for DBS ID document checks.
Identity Checks = Additional, non‑DBS identity assurance using external data sources.
You can use both together to build a strong, layered identity verification process in your recruitment journey.