Welcome to ID Tech’s digest of identity industry news. Here’s what you need to know about the world of digital identity and biometrics today:
Instacart Sued in Illinois Over Facial Scan Data Collection from Shoppers
Instacart is facing a biometric privacy lawsuit in Illinois alleging it violated BIPA by collecting face biometrics data from delivery workers without proper disclosures or consent, using identity verification vendor Jumio. The suit claims no public policy was provided detailing data collection, retention, or destruction, constituting negligent and willful violations. With insurers not covering BIPA claims and Illinois courts favoring plaintiffs, the case highlights escalating legal risks for firms using biometric verification tools.
Data Facts Partners with Cerebrum to Boost Identity Verification Security
Data Facts has partnered with Cerebrum to integrate its vID biometric verification platform into its background screening services. The vID system combines facial recognition, liveness detection, AI-driven document authentication, and secure credential storage, supporting both in-person and remote onboarding. Designed for sectors with high compliance demands, the integration enhances identity assurance, speeds processing, and aligns with global privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA. Cerebrum’s approach avoids storing raw biometric templates and supports decentralized identity models, aiming to mitigate privacy and security risks.
NSW Digital ID Trial Expands to Include 100,000 Photo Card Holders
New South Wales is expanding its digital identity trial to 100,000 digital photo card holders, extending secure online verification tools beyond drivers. Powered by MATTR’s decentralized credential infrastructure, the system supports encrypted, biometric-enabled identity verification through the Service NSW app with selective disclosure features. Focused in Western Sydney, the pilot targets non-drivers, including elderly residents and migrants, to boost digital inclusion. Backed by a $21.4 million investment, the trial aligns with ISO standards, minimizes data retention, and avoids centralized storage. NSW’s approach supports future legislation and nationwide interoperability as other Australian states advance similar digital ID frameworks.
Switzerland Launches Public Testing of National Digital ID System
Switzerland has launched public testing of its Swiyu e-ID app, allowing users to explore a voluntary, state-run digital identity system ahead of a planned 2026 rollout. Built on a decentralized framework with privacy-by-design principles, the app supports selective data sharing via dynamic QR codes and open-source software. The e-ID will eventually enable digital credentials like licenses and residence permits, with private-sector integration planned. Backed by CHF 182 million in funding, the initiative follows Swiss voters’ rejection of a prior private-sector model and awaits a potential national referendum in late 2025 that could determine its final implementation.
UK Police Launch £20M Framework for Facial Recognition Software Procurement
BlueLight Commercial has launched a £20 million, four-year multi-supplier framework for Live Facial Recognition software, enabling standardized procurement across UK police forces. Awarded to NEC Software Solutions, Digital Barriers Services, and Bedroq Limited, the framework prioritizes solution quality (65 percent weighting) over cost (35 percent) and includes predefined standards to promote responsible deployment. The move follows growing interest in LFR, such as Suffolk Police’s February trial, and national debates on oversight, legality, and algorithmic bias. While the framework aims to provide structure and accountability, privacy advocates remain concerned about transparency, data use, and potential expansion beyond initial public safety contexts.
India Launches Facial Recognition for Digital Pension Account Verification
India’s EPFO has launched an Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology system to enable fully digital UAN generation and activation via the UMANG app, removing the need for employer intervention. The system uses live facial scans matched to Aadhaar records, addressing inefficiencies that led to low activation rates in FY 2024–2025. Users authenticate by linking their Aadhaar number, verifying an OTP, and completing a facial scan. The platform also supports pensioners through the Jeevan Pramaan system, allowing life certificate submissions from home. While enhancing inclusion and streamlining access to EPFO services, the rollout raises concerns about biometric security and data protection.
JR East to Launch Facial Recognition Gates at Train Stations in Japan
JR East will pilot facial recognition ticketing at Niigata and Nagaoka stations on the Joetsu Shinkansen line from autumn 2025 to spring 2026, enabling registered passengers to access trains without physical tickets or smart cards. NEC and Panasonic Connect will supply the technology, which includes liveness detection and mask compatibility. Biometric data will be encrypted, stored briefly, and used solely for ticket authentication. The initiative follows similar deployments in Japan and Asia, amid ongoing privacy concerns over surveillance, bias, and data misuse. JR East commits to compliance with national data protection laws and plans gradual expansion based on public feedback.
NEC Face Recognition Tech Outperforms in Latest NIST Accuracy Tests
NEC has achieved the top global ranking in NIST’s latest Face Recognition Technology Evaluation, recording a 0.07 percent error rate in the 1:N Identification test across 12 million profiles. It also led in long-term aging tests, confirming its ability to match facial images taken over a decade apart. Already deployed in over 50 countries and 80 airports, NEC’s facial recognition tech supports use cases from immigration to cashless payments. The company plans a major deployment at Expo 2025 Osaka and continues advancing decentralized identity solutions with privacy-focused, standards-compliant architecture, solidifying its leadership in biometric verification.
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April 9, 2024 – by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala
