Checkout technology specialist Bolt launches Bolt ID in bid to tackle synthetic fraud problem
Checkout, identity and payments specialist, Bolt, has announced the introduction of Bolt ID, a network identity system that, it claims, helps merchants and shoppers reduce the growing risks associated with synthetic identity fraud and account takeover attacks.
The system operates across Bolt’s checkout network and aims to strengthen the integrity of shopper identity without requiring users to create an account or opt into a marketing programme. It functions as a security control that verifies key elements of identity during checkout so that merchants and consumers can complete transactions with greater confidence.
“The future of e-commerce depends on environments that people can trust, yet the foundations behind that experience have not kept pace with the way shoppers live and buy,” says Ryan Breslow, Founder and CEO at Bolt (pictured below).
“Many systems still assume that identity is fixed, when in reality it shifts across devices, retailers, and moments of intent. Our network shows how often gaps appear between those systems and how important it is to close them for the sake of the consumer."
"Bolt ID helps move the industry toward that standard by confirming that a real person is behind a purchase, while giving shoppers more agency and a quiet, always on layer of protection that strengthens their sense of safety without adding friction. Stronger identity safeguards are now essential for an industry that wants to grow with integrity and put people first.”
A central feature of Bolt ID is the use of one time passwords or passkeys as proof that the person attempting a purchase has access to the device tied to a known email. Synthetic fraudsters often obtain personal information, but they rarely control a victim’s device, so confirming device possession makes it harder for synthetic identities to succeed.
“Synthetic fraud has become a coordinated force that moves quietly across retailers and places both consumers and businesses in a difficult position,” says Justin Grooms, President at Bolt.
“Shoppers expect the information they share to support a safe transaction, and meeting that expectation now requires a broader view than any single merchant can maintain. Bolt ID helps connect signals that would otherwise remain fragmented and confirms that a real person is behind a purchase while keeping the experience familiar. Our goal is to offer protection that feels natural to shoppers and to help merchants reduce risk as fraud continues to evolve.”
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
E-commerce was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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