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:
EU Delays Biometric Border Controls for UK Travelers Until 2027
The EU has delayed the full implementation of its new border control systems, pushing back mandatory ETIAS requirements for visa-exempt travelers, including British nationals, until April 2027. The biometric-based Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin phased rollout in October 2025, with full deployment expected by April 2026. ETIAS will follow in April 2027, with a grace period extending until October 2027. The delay addresses operational concerns at border entry points and gives travelers more time to adjust to the post-Brexit system changes.
Belgian Police Raid Huawei Offices in EU Parliament Corruption Probe
Belgian authorities have launched a corruption probe into Huawei’s lobbying activities in the European Parliament, conducting raids across 21 locations in Belgium and Portugal. The investigation, involving over 100 police officers, centers on allegations of bribery and document forgery dating back to 2021. Huawei lobbyists are accused of providing MEPs with luxury gifts in exchange for favorable policy positions. Approximately 15 current and former MEPs are under investigation. The case follows EU concerns over Huawei’s security risks and echoes the recent Qatargate corruption scandal.
Finland Plans Major Expansion of Police Biometric Data Collection Powers
Finland’s Ministry of the Interior has proposed legislation expanding police powers to collect and use biometric data, including facial recognition, fingerprints, and DNA. The law would allow law enforcement to store and compare biometric data for crime prevention and investigations. Privacy advocates warn of mission creep and inadequate safeguards against abuse. The legislation is currently in a stakeholder comment period before advancing further.
Shinhan Bank Adds Airport Facial Recognition to Mobile Banking App
Shinhan Bank has integrated Incheon International Airport’s Smart Pass facial recognition system into its SOL Bank mobile app, allowing travelers to complete airport security checks using only their face. Passengers can pre-register their biometric data, passport, and boarding pass for seamless access to automated security gates. The feature extends to travelers as young as seven and builds on Shinhan’s Face Pay technology. The integration follows a business agreement with Incheon Airport and reflects the growing adoption of biometric travel solutions.
Precise Biometrics Launches On-Premises Access Control for High-security Sectors
Precise Biometrics has launched a fully on-premises biometric access control solution for high-security industries, allowing organizations to retain full control over biometric data within their own IT environments. The system supports facial authentication and palm recognition, offering both on-premises and cloud deployment options. This expansion follows Precise’s acquisition of EastCoast Solutions and growing presence in physical security markets. The new solution addresses data sovereignty concerns, ensuring compliance with strict security protocols in defense, critical infrastructure, and government sectors.
BIO-key Wins Contract to Secure Digital Access for 2.6M California Students
BIO-key International has partnered with California’s Education Technology Joint Powers Authority (Ed Tech JPA) to extend its PortalGuard identity management platform to 195 K-12 schools and districts serving 2.6 million students. The agreement includes phone-free authentication options, aligning with California’s upcoming restrictions on smartphone use in schools. PortalGuard offers 17 authentication methods, including biometrics, to enhance security without mobile devices. The partnership follows a competitive RFP process and expands BIO-key’s footprint in the education sector.
Greece Launches Digital ID App to Protect Children’s Online Safety
Greece is set to launch the “Kids Wallet” digital age verification app within the next month, leveraging its national digital ID system to verify minors’ ages via TaxisNet. The app will enable parental control over online access and app usage, supporting Greece’s push for stronger EU-wide child protection laws. The initiative aligns with the European Digital Identity Wallet program and proposals for a digital age of majority at 15.
Bipartisan Bill Aims to Fix Patient ID Matching in Healthcare Records
U.S. lawmakers have reintroduced the MATCH IT Act of 2025 to improve patient identity matching in healthcare, addressing safety risks and costs from misidentification. The bill establishes a standardized “patient match rate” definition and enhances demographic data entry in certified health IT systems. Research shows mismatched records add nearly $2,000 per inpatient stay. The legislation has broad support from healthcare organizations, aligning with industry efforts to integrate biometric identification and improve interoperability.
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March 14, 2025 – by Cass Kennedy and Alex Perala
