ID Tech Digest – November 29, 2024

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:

European Commission Sets Standards for Cross-Border Digital Identity Wallets

The European Commission has adopted technical standards for cross-border European Digital Identity Wallets, aligning with the European Digital Identity Regulation established in May 2024. These standards define specifications for data formats, security, and interoperability, enabling seamless use of digital identity wallets across EU member states. Supported by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), a cybersecurity certification program ensures compliance with strict security measures. Member states are expected to implement the standards and release wallets by 2026. The initiative supports applications like KYC, IDV, and IAM systems, complementing broader EU digital modernization efforts, including the proposed EU Digital Travel application.

CJEU Rules Against Bulgaria’s Biometric Data Collection Practices

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has ruled against Bulgaria’s biometric data collection practices, requiring authorities to prove the absolute necessity of biometric data collection on a case-by-case basis. The case involved a complaint by a woman whose biometric data was forcibly collected during a tax crime investigation, leading the CJEU to declare Bulgarian law on biometric data collection incompatible with EU law. The ruling emphasizes stricter human rights protections, aligning with a previous CJEU decision limiting systematic and indefinite biometric data collection by Bulgarian police. The judgment reflects broader EU efforts to enforce data protection standards, including calls from the European Data Protection Supervisor to ban public facial recognition and ensure compliance with frameworks like the Prüm Treaty. Bulgarian legislation remains in effect until parliament acts to address the ruling.

Istanbul to Require FRT for Liquor, Cigarette Retailers

The Istanbul government has mandated liquor stores to install security cameras by January 1, 2025, citing the need to protect minors from potentially harmful habits like alcohol and cigarette consumption. The rule requires cameras to cover entrances, exits, sales areas, and parking lots. While framed as a regulatory measure, concerns have arisen about potential surveillance implications, particularly given Turkey’s history of using facial recognition technology for monitoring citizens and identifying dissenters. This mandate contrasts with voluntary biometric age verification systems in other countries, such as the UK. Critics worry the collected data could extend beyond age verification or crime prevention, reflecting broader trends in biometric technology’s use across public and private sectors in Turkey, including Turkish Airlines’ face-scanning systems.

New Zealand Consumers Show Support for Facial Recognition in Retail

A trial of facial recognition (FR) technology in 25 New World and PAK’nSAVE stores in New Zealand, commissioned by Foodstuffs North Island (FSNI), has revealed mixed public sentiment. Over half of surveyed consumers supported FR use, even when its impact on reducing retail crime was perceived as minimal. The trial aims to identify repeat offenders and enhance safety, with 1,747 alerts generated and 130 serious incidents reportedly prevented. FSNI emphasizes responsible use, requiring human verification for matches. Privacy concerns persist, especially after a misidentification incident involving a Māori woman, prompting oversight by New Zealand’s Privacy Commissioner. While many consumers value FR for improving safety, the final decision on its broader adoption will depend on the Commissioner’s findings and ongoing public feedback.

Revolut to Launch Face-scanning ATMs in 2025

Revolut has announced plans to deploy branded ATMs featuring facial recognition technology in Spain by early 2025, enabling cardless and PIN-free account access for users. These multifunctional ATMs will also issue new cards and support cash withdrawals, with future updates planned for cash deposits. The initiative reflects Revolut’s strategy to integrate biometrics into banking for enhanced security and convenience while expanding its physical footprint. As part of its broader growth goals, Revolut aims to double its customer base to 100 million and reach $100 billion in annual revenue by introducing new financial products and technologies.

iDenfy Opens Delaware Office to Strengthen US Presence

iDenfy has opened an office in Delaware to strengthen its presence in the U.S. market, focusing on compliance technology for KYC, AML, and KYB processes. The Lithuanian company’s AI-powered identity verification platform integrates facial biometrics, document verification, liveness detection, and risk scoring, adhering to NIST standards for identity assurance. The Delaware expansion aims to address stricter U.S. regulations and build partnerships, with plans to hire local compliance and partnership specialists. Recent advances, such as automated KYB verification and data cross-matching tools, support streamlined business onboarding and enhanced fraud prevention, including through a partnership with cryptocurrency exchange GlolinkOTC.

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November 29 2024 – by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala