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:
Katsina Payroll Audit Flags Ghost Workers, Projects ₦5.7bn Savings
Katsina State has completed a biometric screening of local government and education staff, verifying 46,380 employees and removing 3,488 ghost or unqualified workers. Officials reported irregularities including fake certificates, double salaries, and illegal promotions, with ₦4.6 million already recovered and projected monthly savings of ₦453.3 million once reforms are implemented. Governor Dikko Radda directed that the findings be turned into a White Paper, while state media confirmed dismissals from the payroll.
RBI Mandates Two-Factor Authentication Across Digital Payments by April 2026
India’s central bank has issued new directions requiring two-factor authentication for all domestic digital transactions starting April 1, 2026. The framework does not mandate OTPs, instead allowing issuers to choose among biometrics, device tokens, passphrases, or one-time codes, with at least one dynamic factor required for card-not-present transactions. Risk-based checks may be applied for higher-risk payments, while exemptions remain for small-value and certain recurring transactions.
Chicago Cubs Face Class Actions Over Alleged Wrigley Facial Recognition
Two federal lawsuits filed in Illinois accuse the Chicago Cubs of collecting facial biometrics from fans at Wrigley Field without consent, in violation of the state’s Biometric Information Privacy Act. The complaints also cite the absence of a retention policy and allege unjust enrichment. The Cubs deny using the technology on fans, saying prior systems were limited to employee areas, as courts continue to interpret BIPA exposure following the 2024 amendment limiting damages.
Aurora Police Seek Approval for Facial Recognition Use With Clearview and Lumen
Aurora Police have published draft accountability reports and opened public comment as they seek city council authorization to adopt Clearview AI and the Lumen/AVCC system. The department says the technology would be limited to investigative leads, with results subject to analyst and supervisor review, and prohibits live surveillance, immigration enforcement, and commercial use. Colorado law requires public reporting, council approval, and human review, with final council consideration expected in the coming months.
Alcatraz Rock X Earns LenelS2 OnGuard Certification Ahead of GSX 2025 Demo
Alcatraz has received LenelS2 certification under the OpenAccess Alliance Program, confirming Rock X compatibility with OnGuard versions 8.1 through 8.3. The company says the integration will allow direct deployment into existing systems, supporting features such as facial authentication, tailgating detection, and SIP intercom without middleware. Alcatraz plans to demonstrate upgrades including adaptive two-factor flows and consent tools at GSX 2025 in New Orleans from September 29 to October 1.
Arizona State Weighs Facial Recognition Pilot for Student Entry Lanes
Arizona State University is considering optional fast-lane entry for students using facial recognition at Mountain America Stadium. KJZZ reported a pilot could launch October 25 against Houston, while local TV coverage said the system is still under review and not planned for the TCU game. Sports Business Journal added that ASU intends to begin with student lanes to address congestion after record turnout of 14,280 students, with possible expansion in later games.
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By the ID Tech Editorial Team