Described are a system and method for verifying a self-authenticating document. First, an image is obtained of at least a predetermined portion of the document. Then, the image is divided into a predetermined number of pixel groups, each pixel group including a plurality of pixels and pixel characteristic data for each pixel is determined. A pixel group classification data for each pixel group is determined as a function of the pixel characteristics data. Based on the pixel group classification data and a location of the corresponding pixel group in the image, a characteristic digital data "CDD" for the image is generated. The CDD is added to the document. Upon a request for verification of the document, the CDD is extracted from the document. Then, a further CDD based on the image is generated. The document is verified only if the CDD is substantially identical to the further CDD.