A Hampton Roads startup, eZverifi, is pioneering a solution to ensure safe in-person meetings and transactions initiated online. The app, created by Dennis Woodbury in response to a series of online scam incidents, verifies user identities via phone number or email, and allows users to leave ratings about their interactions. Privacy is a priority for eZverifi, with a database powered by TransUnion requiring minimal personal information. Targeting a broad audience, from social media users to freelancers and real estate agencies, the app aims to enhance safety in an increasingly digital society.
Introduction
SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — A Hampton Roads startup is working to help make online transactions and meetings safer in-person.
The Creation of eZverifi
In December, Virginia Beach police say a number of reports came in about dash-and-grab PlayStation 5 robberies when sellers met up with buyers they met online. Dennis Woodbury says the incident reminded him of why he created the app, eZverifi.
How eZverifi Works
Woodbury incorporated the company in 2019 and last year, they participated in the Start Peninsula Pitch Competition to learn more about business. He says the app is easy to use after it’s downloaded and all users have to do is fill out a few questions. Once those are answered, they can verify the identities of others who use the app with either a phone number or email address and can leave ratings about their interactions.
Privacy and Security
If the person they’re meeting does not use the app, they can send a link for the other person to fill out questions and eZverifi will or will not recommend meeting that person based on the information they are given. Woodbury says their database is powered by TransUnion, which is a credit reporting agency. He emphasizes that they prioritize privacy and only require email or phone number information.
Expanding Audience and Impact
He says that since the internet is such an integral part of society, it’s important for consumers to keep themselves safe just like companies. Right now, Woodbury says they’re working with social media sites and have expanded their audience to include those who use dating sites, freelancers, and real estate agencies.
Conclusion
“We want to be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem,” he said. The app costs $9.99 to join. To learn more, click here. Click here to download on Google Play. Click here to download on the Apple App Store.
Question & Answer
What is eZverifi?
eZverifi is a startup based in Hampton Roads that provides a solution to ensure safe in-person meetings and transactions initiated online.
How does eZverifi verify user identities?
eZverifi verifies user identities via phone number or email, allowing users to leave ratings about their interactions.
What is the privacy policy of eZverifi?
eZverifi prioritizes privacy with a database powered by TransUnion that requires minimal personal information such as email or phone number.
Who is the target audience for eZverifi?
eZverifi targets a broad audience, including social media users, freelancers, and real estate agencies, aiming to enhance safety in an increasingly digital society.
