Greece: Minors use forged IDs to bypass alcohol and tobacco bans

Minors in Greece are increasingly bypassing government bans on alcohol and tobacco purchases by using forged identification. These fake IDs are often created using paid applications or photo editing software to alter birth dates, allowing youths to enter nightclubs and purchase restricted goods from kiosks.

The Ministry of Digital Governance has noted that the only reliable method for age verification is scanning the QR code via the ‘Gov.gr Wallet’ application. However, many establishments conduct only superficial or formal checks, accepting documents that merely appear official.

While the Greek Police conduct operations such as ‘Night Shepherd’ to monitor age compliance in entertainment venues, enforcement remains a challenge. During the summer, at least 20 arrests were made of establishment owners or managers for selling alcohol to minors. Industry workers have expressed difficulty in performing rigorous checks and have called for stricter penalties for violators.