Webhook
A webhook is an automatic notification mechanism that enables one system to send data in real time to another system as soon as a specific event occurs. In the context of document verification, webhooks instantly inform the client application of a verification result without the need for continuous server polling.
Unlike the traditional request-response model (polling), where the client application must regularly query the server to check whether a process is complete, a webhook reverses this logic: the server 'pushes' information to the application as soon as it is available. Technically, the client provides a callback URL to which the server sends an HTTP POST request containing the event data in JSON format.
In a KYC verification workflow, webhooks play a crucial role for asynchronous processes. When a document requires in-depth analysis (advanced authenticity verification, manual review by an analyst, external database queries), the result is not immediate. The webhook notifies the application as soon as the verification is complete, allowing the system to update the case status and inform the end user without delay.
CheckFile's webhooks cover the entire verification lifecycle: submission received, extraction complete, authenticity analysis finished, final decision (accepted/rejected/review required). Each notification is cryptographically signed to ensure authenticity and prevent injection attacks. The system automatically manages retry attempts in case of delivery failure, with exponential backoff.
Real-world examples
- 1.A neobank configures a webhook to be notified as soon as an identity verification is complete: if the document is validated, the account is automatically activated; if rejected, an email requesting a new document is sent to the customer.
- 2.An insurer uses webhooks to automatically trigger the next step in their underwriting workflow as soon as identity and address documents are verified, without human intervention.
- 3.A property crowdfunding platform receives a webhook notification for each investor document verification, enabling real-time updates to the legal team's compliance dashboard.