There is described a validation and authentication system and method for authenticating and validating messages. The system comprises a data store storing one or more digital fingerprints associated with user imaging devices. There is also a communication module configured to: receive a message M; receive a request for validation and authentication and receive an image PM of the message M captured using a user imaging device. The system comprises an image validation module for analysing the received image PM using one or more image processing techniques to determine if the image is valid and authentic. If the received image PM is determined to be authentic and valid, the image validation module generates a response to the request.