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:
New Standard Introduced for Assessing Biometric Injection Attacks
The European technical standard CEN/TS 18099:2025 has been introduced to address biometric data injection attacks, providing a structured framework for evaluating identity verification (IDV) vendors. While ISO/IEC 30107-3 has long set the benchmark for presentation attack detection, no equivalent standard existed for injection attack detection, leaving IDV vendors without a unified methodology. CEN/TS 18099:2025 fills this gap by outlining methods for detecting and mitigating attacks that bypass biometric sensors through virtual cameras or smartphone emulators. Gartner VP Analyst Akif Khan noted that the absence of such a standard has made it difficult to compare vendor solutions, calling the development a positive step for the IDV industry. The standard defines injection attack techniques, offers detection guidance, and establishes an evaluation framework, though presentation attack testing remains covered under existing ISO standards.
Bahrain Launches eKey 2.0 Digital Identity System with Biometric Authentication
Bahrain has launched eKey 2.0, an advanced digital authentication system developed in collaboration with the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) and Beyon Connect. Introduced on February 9, the platform incorporates biometric authentication for secure user verification, aligning with the global shift away from password-based systems. eKey 2.0 is accessible via the My Gov app and multiple app stores, providing access to 41 government eServices and up to 10 personal documents and certificates. The initiative supports Bahrain’s broader digital transformation strategy under the leadership of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
Five Arrested in Argentina for Fraudulent Scheme Mimicking Worldcoin’s Biometric Collection
Argentine authorities have arrested five individuals accused of attempting to fraudulently collect biometric data by impersonating activities linked to the Worldcoin project. The suspects allegedly sought to exploit public familiarity with biometric proof-of-personhood protocols to obtain sensitive biometric information for identity theft and fraud. Authorities suspect the collected data could have been used to create digital replicas for fraudulent activities. The arrests come amid rising concerns over biometric security, with a recent AuthenticID report citing a record-high 2.1 percent identity fraud rate in 2024, driven by AI-powered fraud. Argentine officials are expected to intensify oversight of biometric data collection programs, particularly those run by private entities. The investigation is ongoing.
RBI Proposes Additional Factor Authentication for International Online Transactions
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to implement Additional Factor Authentication (AFA) for international online transactions, extending security measures currently applied to domestic digital payments. The proposal will apply to non-recurring cross-border Card Not Present (CNP) transactions when requested by overseas merchants or acquirers. A public comment period will remain open until March 10, with implementation set for three months after the final circular is issued. The framework requires card issuers to register their Bank Identification Numbers (BINs) with card networks for AFA validation and mandates financial institutions to deploy AI-based fraud detection and encryption.
Growing Opposition to Uganda’s Mandatory Biometric Voter System Plans for 2026 Elections
Opposition is growing against Uganda’s plan to implement a mandatory biometric voter system for the 2026 general elections, with concerns raised over feasibility, costs, and potential voter disenfranchisement. The Electoral Commission has reported low participation in the voter register update exercise, raising doubts about the system’s nationwide viability. Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Nobert Mao confirmed the government’s intent to introduce mandatory electronic voting, but governance experts warn of logistical and technical challenges. Critics highlight the risk of voter exclusion if adequate preparation and education are not provided, mirroring concerns that led Guyana to abandon its biometric voting plans for 2025. Electoral officials have also expressed concerns over the system’s financial burden and potential election-day failures.
Holonym Foundation Acquires Gitcoin Passport in $10M Deal to Create ‘Proof of Humanity’ Network
The Holonym Foundation has acquired Gitcoin Passport in a $10 million deal to build a comprehensive Proof of Humanity network. The acquisition will merge Gitcoin Passport’s two million users with Holonym’s Human Network and Human Key technology, integrating identity verification services with privacy protection through zero-knowledge proofs. The transaction, set to close by the end of 2024, represents a major consolidation in the decentralized identity sector. The combined platform will enhance identity verification while preserving user privacy, positioning itself as a key player in the competitive digital identity market.
Nashville International Airport Implements Facial Recognition Technology Across Multiple Touchpoints
Nashville International Airport (BNA) has introduced facial recognition technology as part of its $1.4 billion BNA Vision expansion, enhancing security and streamlining passenger processing. The system allows travelers to use facial biometrics at TSA checkpoints, boarding gates, and international arrivals, eliminating the need for physical documentation. BNA joins a growing number of U.S. airports adopting biometric verification, with 27 airports now using similar systems for international flights. Airport officials emphasize that personal data is not stored, and passengers can opt out in favor of traditional verification methods. BNA’s system aims to reduce wait times and improve the overall passenger experience.
Pune Airport Launches DigiYatra Biometric System at New Terminal, Expanding Digital Travel Infrastructure
Pune International Airport has introduced the DigiYatra biometric self-boarding system at its new terminal, expanding the airport’s digital infrastructure. Launched by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, DigiYatra enables passengers to use facial recognition for seamless airport entry, security clearance, and boarding. The system builds on Pune Airport’s existing DigiYatra operations and is part of a broader rollout across India, where the app has surpassed 10 million downloads and facilitated over 45 million passenger journeys at 24 airports. India’s partnership with IDEMIA, selected in 2023 for the DigiYatra project, supports this expansion.
CLEAR Brings Expedited Screening Tech to Portland International Airport
CLEAR has expanded its identity verification services to Portland International Airport (PDX), marking its 59th U.S. airport location. The implementation is expected to generate over $3 million annually in local economic impact and create 53 new jobs in Portland. CLEAR Plus, the company’s expedited identity verification service, costs approximately $16 per month, with discounts available for select airline loyalty members, military personnel, and government officials. PDX Chief Aviation Officer Dan Pippenger highlighted that CLEAR was a frequently requested service following the airport’s terminal expansion. Portland Metro Chamber President Andrew Hoan emphasized the system’s alignment with the city’s technology policies.
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February 10, 2025 – by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala
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