ThisIsMe expanding internationally with $2,5m funding

A tech solutions company conceived by South African entrepreneurs, has set its sights on expanding into both the African and International markets this year, thanks to a US$ 2,5m funding injection from private investors.

Mark Chirnside, CEO of ThisIsMe

You are who you say you are

ThisIsMe CEO, Mark Chirnside says that his company's solution and app (available on Apple and Android app stores) conclusively proves that, not only you are who you say you are, but that you are still alive – assisting in preventing identity theft and other instances of fraud.

ThisIsMe verifies an individual’s identity to other individuals, businesses, financial institutions and regulators. It does so using links to Home Affairs and the major banks.

With a focus on compliance related to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI) and the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) in the financial space, the business has attracted substantial interest from South African corporate businesses and the customers they serve.

Chirnside shares that - since its launch – over 20 corporates have signed up to use ThisIsMe’s solutions to verify the identities of their clientele.

“This includes two banks, one being from the ‘top five’ in South Africa; three insurance companies; fund managers; and HR businesses,” he adds.

Expanding further afield

“We are planning to enter at least three different regions this year and progress in terms of expanding into two of these countries - Australia and New Zealand - is very advanced.”

“On the African front, we are in talks with a potential partner in Nigeria, which represents a particularly demanding market,” he concludes.