# Why do I need to verify my identity?

> When verification is needed, what we check, and what stays private.

- Source: https://help.usewrapp.com/articles/verify-your-identity/
- Topic: Getting started
- Language: en
- Last updated: 2026-11-04

You only need to verify your identity if you want to **receive cash gifts** or hold money in a Wrapp account. That's available to people in Nigeria for now.

You **don't** need it to create an account, send wishes, send gifts, host a celebration page, or receive gift cards.

## Why we ask

Wrapp is not a bank. The partner banks that keep your money are required by law to know who owns each account. Verifying also protects you: nobody else can open an account in your name or take your gifts.

## What happens

- You enter your **BVN or NIN**.
- You take a **selfie**, so we can check it's really you.
- FinZ (part of FinZ Africa Limited, like Wrapp) does the check on its own secure page, with a licensed identity-verification partner.

## What stays private

- **Wrapp never sees your BVN, your NIN or your selfie.** We only hear back whether the check passed, your verification level, and your verified name, date of birth and nationality.
- Your verified name and birthday are then locked on your profile, which keeps accounts safe from fraud.

## Verification levels

Your level decides how much you can hold and move. See [What are my account limits?](/articles/my-account-limits/).

## Need to change your details?

Once you're verified, your legal name and date of birth can only change by completing a new identity check.